Black Ferns Fullback Renee Holmes Credits Coaching Impact as kicking Game Evolves at World Cup
AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Black Ferns fullback Renee Holmes is enjoying a career resurgence at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, fueled by a refined kicking game and renewed confidence, she says. Holmes’ contributions extend beyond customary fullback duties, proving pivotal in the team’s strongest tournament performance to date against Ireland.
Holmes’ re-emergence in the national team coincides with a strategic shift towards a more versatile game plan under coach Whitney Bunting.A key component of this evolution has been the integration of former England international and British & Irish Lion Riki Flutey as attack and skills coach earlier this year.
“Having her in the squad and having her ability to be able to kick off both feet, we don’t get that often even in the male game, and her ability to actually kick from 22 to 22… she’s massively valuable,” Flutey said of Holmes’ skillset. He also praised her character, stating, “Firstly on Rens, she’s an outstanding human, mate, that cares deeply about the Black Ferns and also serving the team first.”
The Black Ferns’ match against Ireland showcased their trademark flair alongside a willingness to contest territory through strategic kicking and robust defense. Holmes herself has benefited significantly from Flutey’s guidance, stating he “made the biggest impact on my career this year.”
Holmes highlighted the team’s readiness to embrace kicking battles, anticipating similar challenges in the knockout stages of the tournament. “When we do come up against teams like Ireland, they will have an awesome kicking game,” she said. “We ain’t afraid to get in that battle and try to put the pressure back on them too.”