Shaniah to show she’s a warrior

Origin dream comes

SUCH has been her rapid rise through the ranks, Shaniah Power’s journey to the State of Origin arena is somewhat of a blur.

Through all of COVID-19’S obstacles, she has somehow managed to use 2020 as a campaign that has launched her into the spotlight and hopefully inspired a new generation of North Queensland talent. First it was a move from Townsville to Brisbane in her pursuit of higher honours on the field and a spot in the Queensland Police Academy off it.

Then it was her signing with the New Zealand Warriors in the NRLW, her last game cementing her in the competition’s folklore as the first woman to score a double for the club.

Now Power will line up to make her Maroons debut – the only downside has been how a poorly timed nap cruelled her of the chance to tell those closest to her.

“Funny thing I wasn’t really told, they told us we would be told on Tuesday but I was actually sleeping when it got posted online,” Power said.

“I woke up to all these message from all my family. I really wanted to break the news to them, it’s such a big deal and they were all hanging out and messaging but I had a nap before training and they all already knew.

“It’s always been something you think ‘what if I ever get the chance?’ and now I’m here and it’s very surreal and a little bit overwhelming.

“From the stories I’ve heard from women who have played for Jillaroos, they said it was a different feeling putting on that Maroons jumper.

“You’ve got a whole state backing you, and the rivalry