The Birth of Nesian Gummas

In February 2025, a story began — one of culture, resilience, and sisterhood.

A group of 14 young women from Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Pasifika Nations, and non-Indigenous heritage embarked on a whirlwind nine-day journey to Las Vegas, Nevada. Their mission: to compete in the NRL Vegas 9’s Rugby League Competition under a former team banner, Indigenous Mana — an event that coincided with the global stage of the 2025 NRL Season Launch at Allegiant Stadium.

These aspiring NRWL players, representing the vibrant southeast corridor of Queensland — from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast — carried with them not just their boots and jerseys, but the strength of their ancestors, the pride of their cultures, and a hunger to prove themselves.

For some, it was their first time overseas — a leap of faith into new territory, both on and off the field.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed in ceremony by a Chief of the Paiute, the First Peoples of Nevada. In that sacred moment, the Chief called upon his ancestors to bless and guide the women as they stepped onto his people’s lands — a spiritual beginning that echoed the depth of their own cultural roots.

Over two intense days of competition, the team poured heart and soul into every match. Blood, sweat, and tears flowed — and with every tackle, pass, and sprint, bonds of sisterhood were forged. Against all odds, they reached the Grand Final, squaring off against a powerhouse team — the Los Angeles Women’s Roosters, stacked with current NRWL athletes.

Though they fell just short of the title, finishing an incredible second place out of nine teams in their debut tournament, they walked off the field with far more than silver. They had earned respect, gained international experience, and formed something far more powerful — unity.

From the sidelines, support staff witnessed something extraordinary: raw talent, unshakable camaraderie, and the potential to build something bigger than any single game. Inspired by what they saw, they began to lay the groundwork for a movement — one that would champion women in rugby league, empower them off the field, and honour their diverse cultural identities.

Nesian Gummas was born — a collective founded on the principle that “sisters together, rise together.”

With a mission to improve societal outcomes for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Pasifika, and other women, Nesian Gummas leverages the platform of rugby league to create pathways not only for sporting excellence, but for leadership, life skills, and personal growth. It is a movement committed to seeing young women not just survive — but thrive.

Looking ahead to 2026, the scent of victory still lingers. Nesian Gummas will return to Las Vegas — stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever. With sharpened skills, fortified support systems, and a fire in their hearts, they are ready to rise.

Nesian Gummas: Culture. Pride. Power. Sisterhood.