Wallaroo bids farewell to the game

NEWS: Wallaroos forward Alapeta Ngauamo has announced her retirement from international rugby.

Ngauamo created history in 2024, becoming the oldest player to debut for the Wallaroos at 35 after years of persistence in club rugby and the Super Rugby Women’s competition.

Of Tongan heritage, the 36-year-old went on to play four Tests for Australia and was part of the side’s successful WXV 2 campaign in South Africa last year.

Ngauamo grew up in a family of eight with her siblings – including her three sisters – all playing rugby in Queensland.

She also played futsal as a teenager and represented the Australian under 18s side.

Ngauamo played for the Queensland Reds in Super Rugby Women’s before switching to Western Force, where she intends to play a third season of rugby with in 2026.

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After injuries in the forward pack, Ngauamo received a call-up to the Wallaroos squad, travelling to Ireland, where she made her international debut in Belfast.

Retiring Wallaroos forward Alapeta Ngauamo said: “My dream of becoming a Wallaroo took longer than most but with the love and support of everyone who believed in me, I finally achieved it.

“I started my first club jersey playing alongside three of my sisters and I leave my international one with countless more.

“For the brief time that I’ve served I hope I’ve done enough to leave my thread in the legacy of the jersey and wish all the best for our next generation of Wallaroos.

“Being a Wallaroo is the highest honour I can achieve in rugby and for that I say thankyou.”

Interim Wallaroos Head Coach Sam Needs paid tribute to Ngauamo following her retirement decision.

“Alapeta is a perfect example of persistence to reach the top, and never giving up on a dream,” Needs said.

“Seeing her debut for the Wallaroos in Ireland last year was a special moment for her and everyone who’s had the opportunity to be part of her journey.

“Her team-first attitude was on show again this year when she answered a last-minute call for us in August against Wales and her commitment to playing at short notice typified her as a teammate and person.

“On behalf of the Wallaroos we thank Alapeta for her contribution to the squad and wish her well in all she does in the future.”