Australian selection sparks family 'issue' for Jillaroo Jessika Elliston
Updated . First published at
Gold Coast Titan Jessika Elliston has been named to pull on the green and gold jersey for the Jillaroos once again this Sunday, but her selection has been a little difficult for her dad to swallow.
Her father Mike Elliston is a born and bred Kiwi, and has had to readjust his alliance.
While born and raised in Australia, Elliston's Kiwi heritage makes her eligible to represent her father's home nation.
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Jessika Elliston poses with supporters of hers after a Jillaroos match in 2023. @jessikaelliston via Instagram
"It's such a beautiful culture, and they welcomed us in," Elliston said of a cultural immersion the Australian teams attended.
However, her loyalties ultimately lie with Australia, a decision that evokes mixed feelings for her father.
"I think it kills my dad a little bit because he's a Kiwi," Elliston said.
Mike, while initially concerned about potential conflicts, has embraced his daughter's choice.
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"I thought it would be an issue, but it's really not," he said.
"It's your daughter. It's your family, you know."
Jessika Elliston of the Titans is tackled during the round four NRLW match between Gold Coast Titans and Parramatta Eels at AAMI Park, on September 10, 2022, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images) Getty
However, the transition hasn't been seamless for the entire family.
Mike revealed his other daughter still proudly displays her Kiwi jersey.
The Jillaroos play the Kiwi Ferns in Christchurch on Sunday as part of the Pacific Championships.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
