Vaka and Suá-Smith to Lead Pride in 2026

The CODEC Wellington Pride have named a 35-strong squad for the upcoming FPC Championship presented by Hilux, with Valini Vaka once again entrusted with the captaincy following her leadership of the side during the 2025 campaign. Vaka will be supported by Keira Suá-Smith, who steps into the role of Vice-Captain. Both players have spent time within the Hurricanes Poua environment, experience that Head Coach Matt Poutoa believes will further strengthen their leadership and the squad.

“Valini did a great job for us last season, and bringing Keira into a leadership role gives us a good balance. There is also a lot of experience within the squad who will support them both on and off the field,” Poutoa said.

The squad was selected following an extensive process that saw 60 players invited into the Pride environment throughout the pre-season. The increased squad allowed the coaching group to assess both players ready to contribute at the highest level now, as well as those who have the potential to play a significant role for Wellington in the future. Poutoa believes the depth uncovered through the process is a positive sign for the region.

“Having 60 players in camp gave us the opportunity to see who was ready to go now and who will be ready in the future. There were some tough calls, but we know that the players who missed out will come back stronger for it.”

Players who were not selected in the Pride squad will continue to have opportunities through the Wellington Development games and U18s pathway, ensuring they remain connected to the representative environment and continue their development.
 

A number of players were also unavailable for selection following injuries sustained during the club season, while others withdrew or were unavailable due to representative commitments.

For Poutoa and his coaching group, the Hauora of those players remains a priority.

“We have the resources and support around our players to help take care of them. Some players were playing through injuries during the club season, and we want to make sure they are at their best when they get the opportunity to represent our region.”

With the squad now confirmed, Poutoa is excited by the balance of experience and emerging talent within the group, as well as the style of rugby the Pride will take into the Championship.

“Congratulations to everyone who has made the squad, particularly those uncapped players who are getting their first opportunity at this level. We believe we have selected a well-balanced group, capable of playing direct but also bringing skill, speed and ambition to the way we play.”

“We are really excited about this group and the brand of rugby we are able to bring.”

Injured: Hosanna Aumua (Avalon), Jane Bryce (Wellington), Lavinia Lea & Ofeira Hunt (Petone), Mele Kupa-Cummings & Roimata Parata (Paremata-Plimmerton), Zoe Clark (Wainuiomata)

Withdrawn: Jaydah Timu & Maia Mapakaitolo (Wainuiomata) & Georgia Thompson (Petone)
International Duties: Ayesha Leti-Iiga, Drenna Falaniko & Fa’asua Makisi (Oriental Rongotai)