After finding out she was going to be a mother last year, Sera Koroi’s hopes of playing for PNG in the Women’s Rugby League World Cup were gone.
However, when the tournament was postponed to 2022, it turned out to be a blessing for the New Irelander as she was selected for the Orchids, and her baby is now a year old.
“His first birthday was just a week ago. It was pretty hard (being away) but he won’t remember it when he gets older and that puts my mind at ease and it will be a big celebration when I go back,” Koroi said.
The 20-year-old, PNG-Fijian was a standout for the Orchids in their last two matches playing at Five-Eight.
A natural ball runner, whose tackle-busting runs are now highlighted in countless social media posts shared especially by PNG women.
When asked about her thoughts on Women’s Rugby League in PNG, she said it is reflected in the success of the Orchids.
From losing all their matches in the 2017 World Cup to now being a win away from securing a spot in the 2021 World Cup Grand Final.
She also spoke of how the Orchids’ success can inspire the younger generation in PNG, especially young women who are chasing their dreams of having a professional career as well as starting a family.
“We have so many mums here, daughters, sisters, and wives – and it inspires (us) the younger generation to chase our dreams,” she said.
Meanwhile, PNG will line up against host nation England in their final pool match this Thursday.
The Orchids are outside favorites but Coach Ben Jeffries believes they can be a force if they stick to their brand of footy.
“We are putting our best team forward to face England. We are here to compete,” Jeffries said.
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