Shalom Sauaso is unquestionably one of Australia’s most talented and accomplished young athletes and cross-code rugby players.

This interview was held in Auckland in December 2024, on the eve of the Global Youth Sevens tournament, with Sauaso captaining the Australian Schoolgirls Sevens on their first-ever international tour. A student of Ipswich State High School in Queensland, and at the tender age of just 17, Sauaso has achieved more in the last two years than most athletes do in a lifetime. However, she was still humbled and honoured to lead the Australian Schoolgirls on this unique occasion.

Having watched Sauaso play and develop over the last three years and getting to know the ‘person’, frequently referred to as a ‘prodigy’ by the media, it becomes evident that Sauaso’s journey is just beginning. She cares deeply, with her head squarely screwed on straight.

Having signed a professional contract with the Broncos ARLW team on her 17th birthday, rugby may have lost her temporarily, but she has not lost her love of rugby.

Who knows what lies ahead? With the Los Angeles and home Brisbane Olympic Games beckoning in 2028 and 2032, the chance to perform on the world’s biggest stage still beckons.

Shalom Sauaso

Queensland Schoolgirls Sevens 2022, 2023, 2024

Australian Schoolgirls Sevens 2023, 2024 (Captain ’24)

Australian Schoolgirls Rugby League 2023, 2024

Australian U18 Sevens 2023

Queensland Reds 2024, 2025

Wallaroos Squad 2024

Broncos NRLW 2024, 2025

Best Player, Global Youth Sevens 2023, Gold Coast & Auckland

Winner, Global Youth Sevens, Australian Schoolgirls – Gold Coast 2023

Winner, Global Youth Sevens, Australian U18 Girls – Auckland 2023  

Ipswich State High School

Samoan heritage

Age: 17 (as time of interview)