The day after the Black Ferns' impressive victory over the Wallaroos ushered in a new regime, and New Zealand Rugby has moved to draw a line under the old one and the Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate controversy with a public apology.
During the Black Ferns Test defeat last year, Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate, middle, packed down in a scrum against England. (Source: Photosport)
The apology, which came through a media release and was followed by an acknowledgement by former Black Ferns hooker Ngata-Aerengamate, is likely the final part of a settlement process started by a social media post by the player back in December.
Ngata-Aerengamate's post highlighted her mental health issues which she said were connected with the culture of the Black Ferns at the time. It ended in the resignation of coach Glenn Moore.
In April this year, an independent review found numerous shortcomings within the environment, including a lack of cultural awareness and a lackadaisical recruitment process.
New Zealand Rugby fully accepted the review, including the finding that Ngata-Aerengamate was not adequately supported, with Moore resigning shortly afterwards.
Formally apologised by NZR directly to Te Kura and her whanau for the experiences that led to her declining Hauora [general health and wellbeing] for her," Tuesday's statement said.
NZR takes responsibility for the systemic failings that led to this decline. Now wishes to repeat that apology to Te Kura publicly and reiterates its commitment to ensuring Te Kura receives the appropriate mental wellbeing and training support required to help her continue recovery.
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