‘We have belief that we can win games’

It has been a year to remember for USA fly-half McKenzie Hawkins.

The 27-year-old has been at the epicentre of the Eagles’ revamp under Sione Fukofuka since the Australian’s introduction as head coach last year.

After Rob Cain’s exit as head coach following the 2021 Rugby World Cup the Eagles experienced a tumultuous 2023.

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

Richard Ashfield and Milton Haig each led the team on an interim basis prior to the appointment of former Wallaroos assistant, Fukofuka.

Winning three of their nine Test matches in 2024, the side celebrated an impressive 32-25 victory against Australia in Melbourne but were unable to leave WXV 1 with a point.

But despite those results, there is a new confidence in the latest iteration of these Eagles.

Whether it was a spirited first-half display against…