Kawa to lead Palais with pride

By HUXLEY LOVAI
QUEENSLAND-based Melanie Kawa will captain the PNG women’s team at this weekend’s Hong Kong 7s.
Kawa, whose father is from Iailbu, Southern Highlands, and mother from Australian, told The National that she was excited to be leading the Palais at the iconic Hong Kong 7s.
Kawa, 31, earned her first cap for PNG during the Palais’ first Test match against Fiji last year.
Born in Mendi, Kawa did her primary schooling in Lae, before moving to Australia.
It was during her time as student at the University of Queensland that she began playing rugby.
“I started playing rugby union at university in Brisbane, I enjoyed it and fell in love with the game,” Kawa said.
“In 15s I’m an open side flanker, but I’ve dabbled in the the centres.
“I really enjoy the flanker position there’s hardly any rules that apply to you, so you can do a lot of tackling which is my favourite part of the game,” Kawa said
Kawa, who has been active for the past 12 years on the Queensland club scene, has represented the state in both formats of the game since 2009.
Her efforts earned her a professional contract in France, in the Top 8 competition for Montpellier during the 2015/16 season.
“It was an amazing experience, I learned a lot about the Northern hemisphere style of the game. However it was a lonely experience as I was by myself,” Kawa said.
“They love their rugby in the south of France, and they really support the women’s game. Every weekend our games attracted thousands.”
Being named as captain of the Palais is an honour for Kawa, who has seen the passion and dedication of PNG’s women.
“I’m really honoured because I know the girls plug their heart and souls into the game. To be role models for the country in terms of women’s sport let alone rugby in a rugby league mad country.”
“But union is such a wonderful game, and these girls are up there with some of the best I’ve played with, so I’m really proud of them”, Kawa said