From making her debut, to winning two rookie of the year awards, to claiming a maiden NRLW premiership and now, earning an international Test call-up for Samoa – it has been a season to remember for Shalom Sauaso.
Last week, the Broncos rising star was named the NRLW rookie of the year at the Dally M awards, fresh from claiming the same honour in the RLPA awards. On Sunday, she scored a try as Brisbane clinched their fourth premiership title with a tight 22-18 win in a classic match against the Roosters.
Shalom Sauaso with the NRLW trophy.
©Gregg Porteous / NRL Images
To top off a dream week, the versatile talent was then named in the Fetu Samoa side as well to take part in her first Pacific Championships.
“First year in the big leagues and I’ve won; I am super grateful, emotions are everywhere,” Sauaso said following the grand final win.
“It’s still crazy to me how it just all happened so fast …
“I couldn’t have done anything that I’ve done … without my village, especially my parents.
“My parents are a big one. They’re the sleepless nights, sacrifices that they had to make, sacrificing their own dreams.
“So, this one is definitely dedicated to them and coach Kalolo, who just passed.”
Shalom Sauaso in action in the grand final.
©Gregg Porteous / NRL Images
Sauaso played for the Queensland Under 19 side earlier this year and the Australian Schoolgirls last season and is no stranger to representative sides.
However, her inclusion in Jamie Soward’s team for the Pacific Championships was a special opportunity for her to proudly represent her family.
“Doing it for my parents, both my parents are full Sa, so I think playing for Samoa, for them would be big.
“All my life that I’ve been making rep teams, it’s for Australia.
“Queensland, Aussie Schoolgirls; so I reckon this one, if I get to play, if I get to make it on the field, it’d be big for my parents.”
Her Fetu Samoa captain, fellow Bronco Netta Nu’uausala, was excited to play on the national stage with the rising talent, who headlines a number young stars in the side including Destiny Brill and Sienna Lofipo.
“I’m super excited for Samoa,” Nu’uausala said.
“It’s always different representing your culture.
“With next year being a World Cup here, we’d love to have more hands on board … (so we are) happy to take Shalom on …
“I went through her mum and we’ve had chats there …
“She brings so much youth into (any team), she keeps us on our toes, but it’s always so fresh to have younger girls come in and keep our energy alive.”
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