Abigail Roache inspires a generation through resilience, faith and the spirit of rugby league

A young New Zealand rugby league star is making waves across the world.

With her family in mind, her faith at heart, and her Pacific roots grounding her through the highs and lows of professional sport, Abigail Roache aims to inspire her generation and those to come.

When she runs onto the field for the North Queensland Cowboys in the Women’s National Rugby League (WNRL) competition, she carries more than just the weight of her jersey.

The 24-year-old centre made the move from Aotearoa to Townsville in North Queensland to chase her rugby league dreams.

Born in Auckland, Roache is the younger sister of former NRL player Nathaniel Roache. She tore her ACL in both knees before turning 20 and had further surgery to repair meniscus injuries.

Roache has represented New Zealand and previously played for the Newcastle Knights. In rugby union, she played for the Chiefs Manawa in Super Rugby Aupiki and provincially for the Auckland Storm.

Abigail Roache made the move from Aotearoa to Townsville in North Queensland, Australia, to chase her rugby league dreams. Photo/Instagram/Abigail Roache

Yet, even from across the Tasman Sea, her family’s support and presence remain a constant source of strength.

“It helps having two brothers that are in the same sort of boat,” Roache tells Pacific Huddle. “We're away from home, so we lean on each other. Also, Mum and Dad are always there, and I always chat with them.”

Faith plays a central role in Roache’s journey. On social media, she shares her ‘Gratitude Series,’ inspired by her mother’s reflections on leaning on God. That perspective has been a source of comfort over the years.

LEFT: Auckland's Abigail Roache during the Farah Palmer Cup Final rugby match against Canterbury in Christchurch on 26 October 2019. RIGHT: Roache at a New Zealand Kiwi Ferns training session at Ngā Puna Wai, Christchurch, on 21 October 2024. Photo/Photosport/John Davidson/Martin Hunter

"After spending a week with me (in Australia), my mum texted me saying God has me exactly where I need to be. ‘He’s got you,’ she wrote, ‘so be grateful for the little things and look how far you’ve come.’"

Roache’s career faced major challenges when she was sidelined for nearly four years due to two ACL ruptures and a meniscus tear.

Many athletes might have walked away, but Roache saw the time as a lesson in patience and resilience.

“People are encouraged by watching us, she says. “Young girls out there didn't even think that they could play tackle, and now they're seeing us on TV play.”

Roache is determined to show the next generation that they belong on the field, too. Her message resonates not only with young athletes but also with Pacific families, who often make major sacrifices to support children pursuing careers abroad.

Roache’s story reflects resilience and connection, and is a reminder that even when distance separates, community remains a powerful source of strength.

New Zealand Kiwi Ferns centre Abigail Roache against Mate Ma’a Tonga at Eden Park on 21 October 2023. Photo/Photosport/Brett Phibbs

This WNRL season, Roache has already made her mark with the Cowboys. But for her, statistics matter less than the bigger picture.

Each game is an opportunity to live out her values, honour her family, and inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

“It's just more than sport now that I'm older. I think now it's about the friends you make, the time you get to play on the field with your friends, and ... what we do off the field is most important.”

For Roache, rugby league is no longer just about winning games; it's about more than that. It’s about faith, gratitude, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind: proof that even far from home, you’re never truly alone.

Listen to Abigail Roache's interview below.