Millie Elliott has made her return to rugby league in Las Vegas, just six months after giving birth to her daughter, Gigi. The renowned player for the Sydney Roosters is set to participate in the Las Vegas Nines tournament, marking a significant comeback in her athletic career. Elliott, who welcomed her daughter in September 2023 with husband Adam Elliott, expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the sport.
Elliott received an invitation from coach John Strange in early December regarding the Roosters’ participation in the tournament. “It’s a bit of an unknown area when it comes to playing again after giving birth, everyone is different, but I’ve been training and I’m feeling good,” she stated. The tournament provides a perfect opportunity for her to ease back into the game, given the shorter match durations.
Supporting Cast and Tournament Highlights
Elliott will be joined by fellow star Jess Sergis and other NRLW regulars, including Corban Baxter and Jasmin Strange, as they prepare for the two-day competition starting on Thursday local time. The event promises to showcase not only women’s rugby league but also strengthen the Roosters’ presence in the United States.
In a notable parallel, Cronulla forward Caitlan Johnston-Green made her own return to the NRLW last year, just 11 weeks after giving birth. Such stories of resilience highlight the growing acceptance of motherhood within professional sports, inspiring many athletes.
The men’s team of the Roosters, coached by Luke Keary, is also gearing up for the tournament, featuring promising talents, including Lachie Dooner. The club’s chairman, Nick Politis, has been a proponent of expanding rugby league’s footprint in the United States, notably through the establishment of the LA Roosters last year.
Travel Challenges and Celebrity Encounters
The journey to Las Vegas, however, was not without its challenges. NRL leaders Peter V’landys and Andrew Abdo faced a travel delay when their charter flight had to return to Sydney due to air conditioning issues. This unexpected turn of events generated considerable attention, particularly after the flight’s return was reported in the media.
Once on board, former rugby league player Josh Morris enjoyed the amenities of the flight, including donning Qantas pyjamas before take-off. The flight itself carried numerous supporters, executives, and media personnel, creating a vibrant atmosphere as they headed to the Nevada desert.
Upon arrival at Harry Reid International Airport, passengers were greeted by showgirls, adding a festive touch to their welcome. Other notable figures in Las Vegas included boxing champion Jai Opetaia, who met with St George Illawarra players and playfully acknowledged his allegiance to South Sydney.
The players took advantage of their time in Las Vegas, enjoying downtime at the Las Vegas National Golf Club before the tournament. This blend of sports and leisure showcases the unique culture of professional athletics in a vibrant city known for entertainment.
As the tournament approaches, fans and players alike are eager to see how Elliott and her teammates perform on the field, marking a significant moment not only in her career but also in the evolving narrative of women’s sports.
