The McEwens of Newcastle have already decided what to do with the two NSW Under 19s State of Origin jerseys heading to the family home this weekend.
Jermaine McEwen and his younger sister Evah McEwen have been selected in the CABE NSW U19s men’s and Westpac NSW U19s women’s teams respectively, to play Queensland at Leichhardt Oval on Thursday (20 June) night.
Both play for the Newcastle Knights in Westpac Tarsha Gale Cup and UNE SG Ball Cup competitions and on Thursday both will be in Sky Blue jerseys with the No.11 on their backs.
“As soon as the squads came out it was a really big thing for my family, especially for my parents. They started crying when the teams were announced,” Jermaine said.
“My dad is really proud that we can represent who we are on the field. My mum is Samoan and my dad is Aboriginal so we get to be proud of our state and our heritage.
“And we’re both going to be wearing No.11 which is quite surreal.”
The option of giving one jersey to each parent has been swept aside.
“Mum will frame them both together for sure – no-one will be allowed to touch them,” Evah said.
“It’s a big thing for my parents and I come from a big family and they’ve all been so supportive. So she’ll want everyone to see them.
“It’s very special. I’m very grateful to be here and represent my family, especially with my brother – we’re very close.
“To share this big moment with my sibling is a huge blessing,” she said.
It has been a long 12 months in some respects for Jermaine.
He was named in the 2023 NSW Under 19s team but on the extended bench.
“My dad has always said hard work over talent and my mum has taught me to always be humble,” he said.
“I was on the extended bench last year (No.19) and didn’t play. I’m back this year and I’m starting.
“When I was watching the game from the sideline last year, I kept thinking ‘I cannot wait until next year; just be patient and work even harder’ and here I am.”
He is equally excited for Evah.
“I’m very proud of my sister and how she’s playing her Rugby League. The women’s game keeps growing and she’s an important part of that as she trains hard and wants to do well.”
Evah was Newcastle’s Tarsha Gale Cup Player of the Year for 2024, after the Knights made the Grand Final but lost to the Illawarra Steelers – nine members of which are now her NSW teammates.
The Under 19s women kicks-off at 5.45pm, followed by the men at 7.45pm.
“I’m going to have the quickest shower ever after my game as I want to see him play,” Evah said.
