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'Feels like the right moment': Jillaroos star ready to honour Samoan heritage

Evania Pelite has achieved it all in the green and gold.

From claiming Olympic glory in Rio to World Cup silverware with the Jillaroos, it's why the star outside back is now eager to put her family first and represent her Samoan heritage.

The 29-year-old will embrace a new beginning in her career and form a deeper connection to her Pacific Island roots, starting at the 2024 Pacific Championships with Fetū Sāmoa.

"I’m really excited for this next chapter," Pelite told Titans.com.au.

"I just looked at where I am in my career, I probably only have a few more seasons left and I’ve always wanted to represent Samoa and the other side of my family's culture.

"My mum is Samoan and both my grandparents were born and raised in Samoa before moving to New Zealand and eventually relocating to Australia.

"Meeting my partner this year also, he’s Samoan and has been helping me understand my culture a little bit more as well.

"I just think things have fallen into place this year and it feels like the right moment to take that journey."

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on Samoa at next month's Pacific Championships as they'll look to secure their place on the world stage.

"Samoa are also vying for a World Cup spot and they’ve only got one chance to make it so I’d really love to be a part of that for them," Pelite said.

"I have a lot of conversations with coaches every year about who I want to play for but this year I want to give my all to the Samoans.

"I saw what Samoa did in the 2021 (Men's) World Cup, it was really nice to see and play a little part in being over there and watching them make the grand final.

"I’d love to recreate that with the women’s side."

The 2024 Pacific Championships kick off on Friday, October 18 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

Acknowledgement of Country

National Rugby League respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands we meet, gather and play on.

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