Ivana Lauitiiti of the Warriors. Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs v NZ Warriors, round 6 of the 2025 NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership at Accor Stadium, Sydney, Australia on Saturday 9 August 2025. Photo: www.photosport.nz
Kiwi Ferns vs Fetu Samoa
3.35pm Sunday October 19
Go Media Stadium Auckland
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It was voted the tackle of the season but newly-named Kiwi Fern Ivana Lauiti'iti warns the brutal shot was just a taste of what she is capable of.
It's been a whirlwind year for the rookie sensation, who began the NRLW season on a developmental contract and is now in line to debut for New Zealand against Fetu Samoa.
However, also with Samoan heritage, Lauiti'iti could have ended up on the other side of the field this weekend.
She said choosing between the two jerseys was not an easy decision.
"Because I started footy from grassroots in New Zealand, I've always seen the black and white jersey as something to look up to and something I dreamed of playing in, it was tough, but I think I just wanted to rep where I started my footy, Samoa is my culture, but I just felt it was right."
Nicknamed 'the quiet assassin,' due to her gentle off-field nature but ferocious playing style, Kiwi Ferns captain Apii Nicholls knows first-hand the power Lauiti'iti possess.
Ivana Lauitiiti Billie Va’a of the NZ Schools 18’s Girls,NZRL-NZ18s Girls v NZ Clubs held at St Peters College,1716 Cambridge Road, Cambridge,New Zealand on Saturday 12 October 2024. z Photo: Andy Skinner
"I recall trying to tackle her and couldn't. Thankfully she hasn't tackled me the way she has in games, she's a beats so thankful i haven't been hit that hard im glad she's on my side."
Lauiti'iti made an impact in more ways than one in her rookie season, earning Dally M NRLW Tackle of the Year for her hit on Wests Tigers winger Emily Bass.
However, being that it was against a smaller opponent, Lauiti'iti doesn't hold the tackle in as high regard as the judging panel.
"She was a back, so I wouldn't say it's much of a hit."
A scary prospect for opposition, Lauiti'iti said there is more brutality to come.
"I'll try it on a forward."
Warriors Ivana Lauitiiti during the Warriors vs Broncos, Telstra Womens Premiership match at FMG Stadium, Hamilton, New Zealand on Sunday 7 September 2025. Photo: DJ Mills
Bearing the name of rugby league royalty, Ivana shares plenty of the traits with the man dubbed the 'Michael Jordan of rugby league'.
From the softly spoken and humble nature, thrilling on field playing style, to the infectious smile, one can not help but draw comparisons between the rookie sensation and father Ali.
However, Ivana is looking to create her own legacy.
"I think not only walking in his footsteps, but also making my own path and making my own title in the game. I'm proud to be recognised like that. But also wanting to make my own name for myself."
While many young players grew up trying to emulate her dad in the backyard, Ivana had her own role model in cousin Onjeurlina Leiataua.
"She is still playing. She still wrecks. She is amazing. A pretty hard hitter and I wanted to be like her. I think no one can compare to her."
After expecting to play mostly club footy in 2025, Lauiti'iti said she is still coming to terms with her Kiwi Ferns selection.
"Unreal, unexpected, but just grateful. I see all the girls that have played for a while, the experienced players, and I'm just ready to learn off them."
Ivana Lauitiiti in possession. NRLW Wests Tigers Women v NZ Warriors Women at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney, Australia, Sunday 14th September, 2025. Photo: David Neilson
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