Sport + Motorsport
A 20-year-old Invercargill woman will represent New Zealand at the World Deaf Rugby Sevens championships in Japan after just months in the sport.
Tiana Petre switched from 16 years of dancing to rugby midway through 2024. Now she's heading to Tokyo as part of the Deaf Ferns squad for the October 30-November 5 tournament.
"Being selected for the New Zealand Deaf Rugby Sevens team after such a short time in rugby is something I am incredibly proud of. It shows that with determination, hard work, and belief in yourself, opportunities can come when you least expect them," Petre said.
The transition from dance floor to rugby pitch wasn't straightforward. Communication barriers created unique challenges.
"As a deaf athlete, there have been challenges along the way. Communication on the field can be difficult when most of the game relies on spoken instructions, whistles, and calls. Sometimes I have had to work harder to make sure I understand what is happening and to ensure teammates and coaches understand the best ways to communicate with me," she said.
Petre moved from Invercargill to Auckland to attend the Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education Centre. She credits her deafness with building resilience rather than limiting her potential.
"Being deaf is a big part of who I am, but it does not define what I can achieve. It means I experience the world differently, and there are times when communication barriers can be frustrating. However, it has also taught me resilience, adaptability, and determination. It has made me a stronger person both on and off the field," she said.
The Tokyo championships will feature teams from New Zealand, Australia, England, Wales, South Africa and Japan. Both the Deaf Blacks and Deaf Ferns will compete.
Participation is largely self-funded. Petre has launched a Givealittle page to cover travel, accommodation, uniforms and tournament costs.
"Being selected to represent New Zealand is one of the proudest achievements of my life. It reflects years of hard work, commitment, and overcoming challenges. It is also an opportunity to represent both my country and the deaf community on an international stage," she said.
Petre sees her selection as carrying responsibility beyond personal achievement.
"Representation is incredibly important. Growing up, seeing other deaf people achieve success showed me what was possible. If my journey can inspire a young deaf person to believe in themselves and chase their dreams, then that means a lot to me," she said.
Her message to other young people is direct: "Never let being different stop you from chasing your dreams. There may be challenges along the way, but those challenges do not define your future. Believe in yourself, work hard, and do not be afraid to ask for support when you need it."
Petre remains proud of her Southland roots. "I am proud to be from Southland, and I hope my journey shows other young people that representing New Zealand is possible."