Army Engineer chases World Cup glory

Captain Bayfield only pulled on the black jersey for the first time earlier this year, which she said came with a great sense of pride, particularly singing the national anthem with her teammates.

“Having the opportunity to build on the legacy that has come before me and create my own is truly a privilege,” said Captain Bayfield.

Captain Bayfield’s drive to join the Army began following a careers experience, before joining the service straight out of high school in 2017.  

“I attended a ‘Women in the Defence Force’ experiences weekend in Whangaparāoa during my final year of high school which opened my eyes to the career option of joining the New Zealand Defence Force.

“I enjoyed the idea of a physically demanding and challenging job that gave me variety, the opportunity to travel, and play sports,” she said

Having joined the Corps of the Royal New Zealand Engineer Regiment, Captain Bayfield has already served in a variety of roles, most recently as second-in-command at 3^rd Field and Emergency Response Squadron at Burnham Military Camp. She was the commander of the Army’s engineer team that assisted with the rebuild of the Waiho Bridge in 2019 following the flooding in South Westland on the West Coast.

The things she enjoys most about serving in the Army are the comradery with fellow servicepeople, the variety of work, and the opportunity to develop and test your courage, leadership and fitness. All of which have translated positively to the sports field.

“The training ethic, discipline and standards expected of being a solider have all helped in shaping my sporting career so far.

“I have been put in some tough physical and mental situations that have built my personal resilience, and my ability to push myself to the physical extreme.” 

Prior to being selected in the 2025 Black Ferns World Cup squad, Captain Bayfield has also played for Canterbury since 2000 in the Farah Palmer Cup, and later Matatū in the Super Rugby Aupiki competition since 2023.

She hopes that her story encourages young people to consider a career in the military, rugby, or even both as in her case. 

“The skills that I have learned in the military have been transferable to my rugby career.

“The foundation I gained through the NZ Army directly related to the values you get playing sport. If you value sport, being competitive, having fun, staying fit, then you’ll find the lifestyle and values of the NZ Army very similar. 

“We want soldiers who want to win, be the best versions of themselves, be competent in their trade and have fun doing it. 

“The military has given me unforgettable experiences through the people I have met and who have supported me to be great in both careers. I am grateful for the ongoing support.” 

The Black Ferns take on Canada in the first semi-final this weekend, with kick off at 6am New Zealand time on Saturday. Read more details here(external link).