There may be two NSW teams challenging for the NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership in Redcliffe on Sunday but for Queenslander Zahara Temara, it’s her ideal scenario.
After three seasons of playing in front of her Gold Coast-based family in Sydney, the Roosters five-eighth has ordered around 40 tickets so everyone who has supported her can be there.
“I am pretty pumped, I think I was the only one happy it was up here and have been stealing all of the girls’ tickets,” Temara told NRL.com.
“I asked for 20 originally and then heard some of the girls had 30 so I thought they can’t outdo me.
“I’m treating it like it like I might never get this opportunity again up here so I just want to enjoy the moment with my family and friends.”
Temara is as loyal as they come in an NRLW competition that has seen an average of over 40 percent squad turnover across all teams in the past four years.
She knocked back a chance to join the Titans in a bid to stay loyal to the Roosters this season.
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The 24-year-old is one of two Queenslanders in the grand final team for Sunday’s clash with Keilee Joseph joining Temara in the line-up.
The Dragons have one Queensland representative in their side, former Maroons and Australian back-rower Kody House.
“Ever since 2018 I’ve just loved this club and they’re like family to me,” Temara said.
“I would always come back just for the people and the jersey, it’s the feeling I get.”
Temara, one of four players who have been at the club since their inaugural 2018 campaign, said after two previous grand final defeats
Other foundation Roosters players who have played at the club since their inception include Corban Baxter, Brydie Parker and Sarah Togatuki, while Isabelle Kelly also played in the 2018 decider.
“It would be very special for us ‘OG’ [original] girls, we’ve talked about it,” Temara said.
“It’s probably been one of our biggest regret is not winning one with some of the girls who have played in the jersey previously.
“Even to play those girls who have gone on to play for other clubs it’s hard. Some have been close mentors to us. It would mean a lot to us.
“We’ve been confident every year but this just feels a bit different, we’re keen to turn the tables.”