This week on Full Credit, Alice Soper and Les Elder take a deep dive into the state of Chiefs Manawa — the franchise that once set the standard in women’s rugby, but now finds itself navigating a difficult rebuild.
With major squad turnover, declining results, and changes in the coaching setup, the conversation explores how quickly success can shift in a developing competition and what happens when a powerhouse loses the core group that built its identity.
Alice and Les reflect on the legacy of the players and staff who created the foundation of Chiefs Manawa’s dominance, while also highlighting the next generation now being asked to carry the franchise forward. What can realistically be expected from a squad packed with rookies? How do you rebuild confidence, cohesion, and culture while still trying to compete at the highest level?
The episode also looks at the wider lessons for Super Rugby Aupiki franchises: sustainability, player pathways, retention, and the challenge of staying on top in a rapidly evolving women’s game.
A thoughtful conversation about leadership, legacy, and the realities of rebuilding in elite sport.
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