The Players: Iemaima Etuale

Iemaima Etuale will achieve a major milestone this Sunday when she makes her NRLW debut for Wests Tigers against St. George Illawarra Dragons at Allianz Stadium.

The 19-year-old forward has progressed through the Wests Tigers Pathways system to now make her maiden appearance in the top grade.

Etuale is just another Wests Tigers local junior to reach the NRLW.

“I was born in New Zealand and then I moved over to Sydney when I was still in primary school,” Etuale said.

“I grew up in Campbelltown, so I played for Eaglevale St Andrews. I was playing soccer first, and then when I went into high school, one of my friends asked if I would come and play footy as well.

“I did both for a year, and then my mum told me I could only do one, so I stuck to footy.

“I played for Tigers there in the Lisa Fiaola, but it was just the one-day tournament. Then I came back for Tarsha.

“In the next season of Tarsha, I got picked up for NRLW Development and now I’m Top 24 and debuting.”

Etuale says making her debut playing alongside fellow local junior Lucyannah Luamanu-Leiataua, who she grew up playing with in the Eaglevale St Andrews juniors, is something special.

“Lucy’s mum was our coach; I grew up with Lucy, she's basically my cousin.

“I definitely think it’s such an achievement.

“Our parents are just so proud and being able to make my debut with her is something you would only dream of. I think it’s so cool.”

Having some of the most experienced forwards in the women's game amongst the squad has also helped Etuale feel at ease heading into her first NRLW game.

“I don’t feel as nervous as I think I should just because I have all those girls around me,” she said.

“I would say Sala, Kez and Christian… they all wear the leadership hat so well.

They always put the team first, and just the way they hold themselves accountable… it’s just nice.

Iemaima Etuale on the leaders in the NRLW squad

While there were times she doubted whether her NRLW debut would come, 'Myma' says the timing now feels right.

“I definitely did doubt it for a bit, but I think it is a good time for it to come.

“I’m probably playing my best footy right now.

“Things happen for a reason.”

She is also grateful to be sharing the moment with Portia Bourke, who will debut alongside her.

“She’s so driven as well,” Etuale said.

“In the short time that I’ve known her, she’s so driven and so positive about everything.

“Debuting with her, I feel so grateful to be next to someone like that as well. She’s so deserving of it.”