Crystal Tamarua is a forward who plays for the Richmond Roses in the Farrelly Photos Women’s Premiership. She’s also a dual New Zealand and Cook Islands international who is currently in Australia playing for the New Zealand Warriors in the NRLW competition. We catch up with her below.  

You’re one of five Auckland women who have made the trip over for the NRLW, how’s life in Australia?

The two weeks in quarantine went well. We literally didn’t know anything about where we were going or where we were staying when we left Auckland Airport. I was fortunate enough to be roomed with my Richmond club teammates Georgia Hale and Amber Hall (who is playing for Brisbane). We did hotel workouts every day with the little amount of equipment we had been given. We were then taken to Milson Island which we all loved, and I was grateful for the freedom. Now we’ve relocated to our new home in Manly and we’ve connected really well with the Aussie girls in our team. They’re our family now. 

As one of the few Farrelly Photos Women’s Premiership players taking the field in the NRLW this year, how does it feel? 

There’s a sense of pride. I know that when I play I’ll be playing not just for the Warriors’ girls back home who couldn’t play this year, but for Richmond too. I will always remember where it all started for me and I’m proud to be part of a club that has had a number of women represent our country in this sport. 

Is it helpful having four other Richmond players having made the trip with you?

It has made it easier to not miss home, it’s like going on a girls’ trip. Overall we have grown so much closer to each other. I’m so grateful for our friendship and I know it’ll have a positive impact on the field during the NRLW and when we’re back home playing in the Auckland competition again. 

Although it had to be cut short due to COVID-19, how did you find the Auckland comp this year?

I didn’t get to play many club games, but I love the physicality of the Auckland game, and I love the long life friendships you make in it. 

What’s one big lesson you learned back home in Auckland that you’ve taken with you to the NRLW? 

The importance of my culture. To always be proud of who you are and where you come from. 

You’ve been around the Farrelly Photos Women’s Premiership for a few years now, what’s been your best memory so far? 

I don’t have a best memory, but the biggest thing I love about the Auckland competition isn’t just playing, but also being able to watch my sister Rochelle Tamarua referee. It’s something no other player gets to share with their sibling. I am so grateful for that.

Article added: Wednesday 07 October 2020