NRLW: NZ Warriors star Payton Takimoana makes bumpy start to sophomore season
NZ Warriors winger Payton Takimoana is navigating a challenging second season in the NRLW following a breakout rookie year. After suffering an early injury, she is working to regain her form and spot in the starting lineup.
Why it matters
The story illustrates the physical and mental pressures faced by professional athletes during their sophomore seasons.
Early in her second NRLW season, NZ Warriors wing Payton Takimoana has already had a taste of the dreaded sophomore jinx.
In 2025, she was perhaps the standout performer in her club's return to the Aussie women's rugby league competition after a four-year hiatus, scoring 15 tries in 11 outings - second behind only Brisbane Broncos superstar Tamika Upton - and earning Dally M Wing of the Year honours.
"It was kind of unbelievable, it didn't really sink in, until after the season, when I heard from family and friends," she reflected. "I think it just goes to show how good our connection was as a team on and off the field."
On a roster boosted by off-season acquisitions, Takimoana again seemed poised to feast on opportunities, until she injured a shoulder reaching out to score before halftime in the season-opening win over Canterbury Bulldogs.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in