Rugby icon Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has made history as the first female ambassador for the 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s Tournament, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the sport. In an exciting development, she will also become the inaugural woman to be inducted into the prestigious RugbyTown Walk of Fame.
Joining a celebrated group including the likes of the late Jonah Lomu and Waisale Serevi, Woodman-Wickliffe’s selection as ambassador is a recognition of her remarkable contributions to rugby over the years. She is a celebrated double Olympic gold medalist and a World Cup winner in both the 15s and 7s formats, making her one of the sport’s all-time leading try scorers.
Tournament Director Jay Whyte expressed that Woodman-Wickliffe’s recognition showcases her immense impact on the sport, especially in promoting women’s rugby globally. As part of the tournament festivities, the Portia Woodman-Wickliffe Medal will be awarded to the Women’s Top Try Scorer in the Shangri-La Yanuca Island Fiji Women’s Division, alongside the FWCC Rusila Nagasau Medal for the Women’s Player of the Tournament.
The 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s Tournament is set to take place from January 15 to 17 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. This initiative not only honors Woodman-Wickliffe’s legacy but also provides a platform for promoting female participation in rugby, inspiring a new generation of players. The positive aftermath of her appointment underscores the ongoing evolution and acknowledgement of women in sports, paving the way for future ambassadors to continue this legacy.