Parramatta Eels Star’s Inspiring Journey: Tragedy Fuelling a Passion for Rugby League

Mahalia Murphy, a shining star of the Parramatta Eels in the NRLW, has bravely shared her personal story, revealing how two devastating events during her childhood laid the foundation for her remarkable career in rugby league.

Tragedy’s Transformative Impact

Growing up, Murphy experienced a life-altering car accident that left her mother severely injured. The incident pushed the family to rally together, with each member playing a vital role in supporting their matriarch. Despite her young age, Murphy’s resilience shone through as she witnessed the strength of her siblings and took on additional responsibilities at home.

However, it was the tragic loss of her sister in 2013 that profoundly impacted Murphy’s life. The sudden and unexpected nature of her sister’s death propelled Murphy towards a deep desire to make something meaningful of her life and honor her loved one’s memory.

Rugby League as a Sanctuary

Murphy found solace and purpose in rugby league. The sport became a channel for her emotions and a way to connect with her family and community. With every step she took on the field, she carried the memory of her sister and a fierce determination to make her proud.

Murphy’s unwavering commitment and natural talent propelled her to represent Australia in three different rugby codes – league, union, and sevens – an exceptional achievement that speaks to her exceptional ability and hard work.

Building Resilience through Adversity

Murphy recognizes the formative impact that the tragedies she experienced have had on her mental strength and resilience. She draws inspiration from those challenging times, viewing them as “why’s” that drive her forward and give her the fortitude to overcome obstacles.

She believes that facing adversity can either break you or build you. By choosing to embrace the challenges and learn from them, Murphy has forged an unyielding spirit that empowers her on and off the field.

Honoring Her Legacy

Today, Murphy takes immense pride in representing her family, her team, and her country on the rugby field. With every tackle and every try, she pays homage to her loved ones who have guided her along the way.

Mahalia Murphy’s story is a testament to the transformative power of adversity. By embracing her past struggles and channeling her emotions into sport, she has not only achieved remarkable success but also inspired others to find strength in their own challenges.