Born in New Zealand, with Samoan roots, residing in Ireland - what a diverse and fascinating life path for Ivana Kiripati!
Ivana Kiripati: A Samoan-New Zealand Rugby Star Rising in Ireland
Ivana Kiripati, a Samoan-New Zealand rugby player, has made a name for herself in the Irish rugby scene. Born in Roscommon, Ireland, Kiripati was raised partly in New Zealand and educated in Athlone, Ireland[1][4]. Her love for the game started at a young age, nurtured by her Samoan-born and New Zealand-raised parents, Kolo and Mele[2].
Kiripati's parents coached her throughout her rugby career, from under-12s to breaking into the Connacht under-18s team. During her college summers, she spent her time training and playing with Connacht[3]. This dedication paid off when she earned a rugby scholarship to American International College (AIC) in Springfield, Massachusetts, where she played as a starter for four years, won two National Division II championships, and was selected for the all-NIRA XV team[1][3].
At AIC, Kiripati played positions different from her current role in Ireland, training as a back in the US (positions 10 and 13) but returning to play as a forward in Ireland[1]. This adaptability across positions is a testament to her versatility and commitment to the game.
Upon returning to Ireland, Kiripati progressed through the Connacht and Ireland age-grade pathways and has played with the Connacht team, notably in the Celtic Challenge[2][4]. Recently, she made her debut for the Ireland senior squad at openside flanker and appeared in test matches in the buildup to the 2025 Rugby World Cup, highlighting her impact and rising profile in Irish rugby[2][5].
Kiripati's aspirations for the Rugby World Cup are clear. She was surprised and excited to be called up for the 2025 World Cup preparation squad, underscoring the rarity and significance of the event[1]. She is focused on her rugby career and is looking ahead with determination toward the 2029 Rugby World Cup in Australia, when she will be 26 years old, although her selection for that tournament remains to be seen[1].
Born in 2003, a time when playing at a high level in rugby was becoming more accessible for girls and women, Kiripati's journey is a testament to her passion and dedication[6]. She considers Ireland as her home, where her parents chose to raise her and her siblings[7].
In the next five years, Kiripati expects the women's rugby scene to be significantly different[8]. With her sights set on the 2029 World Cup, she is poised to continue making history in Irish rugby.
[1] Rugby World Cup [2] Connacht Rugby [3] American International College [4] Our Lady's Bower [5] Irish Rugby Football Union [6] Women's Rugby World Cup [7] Co Westmeath [8] Irish Examiner
Sports have been a significant part of Ivana Kiripati's life, as she has dedicated numerous years to excelling in rugby, a sport she developed a love for as a child in Ireland. Her accolades include playing as a starter for four years at American International College and winning two National Division II championships, as well as making her debut for the Ireland senior squad and competing in the 2025 Rugby World Cup preparation squad.
