Player Bio
Kalyn Takitimu-Cook on her signing
“I’m beyond excited to sign with the Warriors and represent my whānau.“Ronald reached out to me a few months ago to share his vision for the Warriors and his plans for women's rugby league in New Zealand. From that first conversation, I knew I wanted to be part of it. He made me work for it over the following months, and I’m thrilled that I did!
“When I signed, my reaction was very emotional – I was at a loss for words and just gave Ron a big hug. Now I’m simply looking forward to what lies ahead.
“It’s an honour to be part of the Warriors' return to the NRLW, and I’m proud to represent my whānau and everyone who has supported me along the way. The chance to play in the best competition in the world while staying close to my whānau is huge for me.
“While my background is mostly in union, rugby league runs deep on my Nuna's side of the whānau. I’m a proud product of Manukura, a Māori kura kaupapa in Palmerston North, but I was born and raised in Papakura.
“In union, I played first-five, fullback and wing, and in the NZRL Premiership this year, I played wing and fullback. Ron sees me as a utility player and I’m happy to contribute wherever the team needs me.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Ron for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to connect with the team in the new year and put in the hard work during preseason.”
Profile | Kalyn Takitimu-Cook
Born: April 19, 2000Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Teams: Rugby league | Richmond Roses, Akarana Falcons (Auckland). Rugby union: Black Ferns 7s development, Hurricanes 2024, Blues 2022, New Zealand 7s Junior Olympics, New Zealand World Schools 7s
Position: Utility back
Height: 170cm
Weight: 70kg
NRLW debut: Yet to make debut
Rugby union career:
Teams: Manawatu Cyclones 2018-2020, Bay of Plenty Volcanix 2021-2022, Hurricanes Poua 2024
Appearances: 21.
Manawatu Cyclones: 8
Bay of Plenty Volcanix: 10
Hurricanes Poua: 3
Points: 74 (8 tries, 11 conversions, 4 penalties)
Manawatu Cyclones: 29 (5 tries, 2 conversions)
Bay of Plenty Volcanix: 45 (3 tries, 9 conversions, 4 penalties)
Hurricanes Poua: 2 (1 conversion)
Representative honours: Rugby union | Gold medallist New Zealand 7s, 2018 Junior Olympics, New Zealand World Schools 7s 2018. Rugby league | National women’s premiership, Akarana Falcons
