LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
titans.com.au have revealed the inspirational tale of how the World Cup sparked Evania Pelite's decision to make the switch to represent Samoa in Rugby League.
Even as she basked in the glory of victory with her Jillaroos comrades at Old Trafford following their triumphant 2022 World Cup win, Pelite's mind was already turning towards the prospect of donning the blue and white of Fetū Samoa in the next tournament.
Pelite, the player who sealed Australia's 54-4 thrashing of the Kiwi Ferns with a try, will finally realize her dream of honoring her Samoan roots in this Saturday's RLWC2026 qualifier against Tonga at Suva's HFC Stadium.
The versatile athlete, boasting dual international status and two Olympic appearances, was brought up in the traditional Fa'a Samoa manner by her grandparents.
Having tasted success by winning a gold medal with the Rugby 7s squad in the 2016 Rio Games, Pelite was drawn to the idea of representing her heritage after witnessing Toa Samoa in action against the Kangaroos in the men's World Cup final.
The lure of wearing the blue and white jersey and giving back to her cultural background proved irresistible to Pelite as she sets her sights on this exciting new chapter in her Rugby League journey.