LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In 2025, the debate surrounding international allegiance and heritage in rugby league has reached unprecedented levels, with criticisms directed at NRL and NRLW stars about their ability to represent multiple nations throughout their careers.
The Australian media's approach to discussing players' cultural diversity has been criticized as hypocritical, leading to significant frustration among players, both current and former. Figures like Payne Haas and Sienna Lofipo have faced backlash for opting to embrace their heritage instead of joining the Australian teams, which many perceive as a rejection.
Jamie Soward, a former St George Illawarra Dragons player and current coach for Fetu Samoa, has voiced his concerns about the negative impact these criticisms can have on players. He highlighted the mental health implications of such public judgment in a world where mental well-being is becoming increasingly vital.
Soward remarked, "In an age where mental health is such a crucial thing, not only in sport but in life, jumping online to judge people on their decisions based [on] information that we don't know [is not right]." He emphasized the emotional turmoil players often experience when they decide which nation to represent.
He added, "There are a lot of people struggling with a lot of things at the moment, and it's a terrifying choice for young females and especially males to pledge allegiance to [just one side] of their family when they've got dual heritage." Soward's comments underline the complex challenges faced by players caught between multiple cultural identities.