“I’m proud I got to wear the Ngāti Kahungunu colours, represent my iwi, meet new people, and learn heaps about teamwork and discipline.”
For many players, stepping onto the field is routine, but for Alexiah Te Kahika-Toe Toe, this season was all about firsts. It was her first time playing league, her first time travelling for the game, and her first time wearing the Ngāti Kahungunu colours with pride.
Her journey took her from Hastings for regular trainings to Rotorua for competition, where she embraced the challenge of a brand-new sport. Alexiah reflected on how much of a learning curve it was, but also how rewarding it felt: not just in building new skills, but in forming connections, building discipline, and discovering the strength of teamwork.
What shines through her kōrero is not just the matches played, but the meaning behind them. She carried her iwi onto the field, representing more than just herself, and in doing so, showed courage and determination that will carry her far in sport and beyond.
This experience has given Alexiah memories and lessons that she will carry with her into future seasons, proof that sometimes stepping into something new can become the most rewarding part of the journey. 🏉🌿
