Parramatta is going to mark a significant event this weekend when Kiana Takairangi plays her first NRLW game for the Eels. She will become part of the first-ever trio of a father-son-daughter to play for the team in blue and gold, as well as any other championship team.
Her dad, Louis Takairangi, played for Parramatta’s A-grade team in 1987, starting a family legacy that would last many years. Her brother, Brad Takairangi, became a favorite of the fans during his six years with the team, playing 110 NRL games from 2015 to 2020.
Now, Kiana is ready to make her mark in the teamโs proud history and have her name on the player honor walls at the Parramatta Eels Centre of Excellence. “Wearing the same logo and colors as my dad and brother is really special,” Kiana mentioned before her first game. “Parramatta is very important to our family; itโs not just a club, it feels like home. “
The skilled outside back has shown her talents leading up to her first NRLW game with the Eels, displaying speed, good footwork, and toughness that the Takairangi name is known for.
Louis and Brad gave Kiana her jersey and they shared an emotional moment, saying, “When I played for Parramatta in 1987, I never thought my son and daughter would also do that one day. Itโs something really special for us.”
“Iโve been encouraging her to come out here for the last few years, so Iโm really happy she finally listened. Itโs amazing to make history together, and I couldn’t be prouder,” he added.
Kiana has scored 6 tries in 13 NRLW games. She started with the Sydney Roosters in 2019, where she played 2 games, then moved to Newcastle in 2022 for 6 games, and later played 5 games for Cronulla in 2023. On the international scene, she has proudly represented her roots and the Cook Islands in 6 matches from 2017 to 2024.
The Eels family is excited to welcome Kiana this weekend, as she becomes the next part of a special Parramatta story.
