Our Rugby Union

The blyde women reveal how they’ve made history in kiwi sport.

- Kelly Bertrand

When Michaela Blyde first pulled on the hallowed black Kiwi rugby jersey, like any mum, Cherry Blyde’s heart almost burst with pride.

But Cherry’s happiness was a little different. Tucked away in her wardrobe was her very own black jersey – and she was watching her little girl follow in her footsteps.

When the Weekly catches up with the mother-daughter duo in Tauranga, it’s clear that despite retiring from the Black Ferns in 1992 to start a family, Cherry (51) is still more than capable of keeping up with her Black Ferns Sevens’ daughter – well, almost!

“The other day, we went for a run and right outside our driveway is a big hill,” begins Cherry. “I remember when we would go for runs after school when Michaela was 11 or 12. I’d turn to her halfway up the hill and say, ‘Lift your knees!’ So, we’re halfway up, and she turns around and goes, ‘Lift your knees, Mum!’”