“The future is very bright,” says Cheta Emba, reflecting on her visit to Papua New Guinea and the growing presence of women in rugby across the country. Before her departure yesterday, PNG HAUSBUNG had the privilege to meet Cheta Emba at Bomana Primary School on Friday, 30th May 2025, during a joint outreach program by the U.S. Embassy Sports Envoy and PNG NRL School Clinic Program. The USA national rugby union player and advocate for women’s sport shared her remarkable journey, her heartfelt experience in Papua New Guinea, and her hopeful vision for the future of women’s rugby in the country. Cheta described her visit as “incredible.” Having never been to PNG before, she was moved by the community’s warmth and inspired by the deep-rooted passion for rugby. “I had no idea what to expect, but the love of rugby here is so strong,” she said with a smile. “It’s easy to connect because we all share that love of the game.” Her path to rugby wasn’t straightforward. Raised in a family that leaned towards academics and traditional sports like soccer and basketball, Cheta initially pursued those familiar routes. It wasn’t until college that she discovered rugby and it was love at first tackle. “Coming from a soccer and basketball background, rugby was completely new. At first, my family wasn’t entirely behind the idea of me playing such a physical sport,” she shared. “But over time, as they saw how much I loved it and the opportunities it brought, they came around.” After earning a degree in molecular and cellular biology from Harvard University, Cheta made the bold decision to pursue rugby full-time and relocated across the country to train at the National Training Center, chasing her dream of representing the United States on the world stage. “It took time before I earned my first jersey, but playing for the national team in both sevens and fifteens has been a dream come true,” she reflected. “I’ve been fortunate to travel the world and apply not just the physical skills, but the lessons in discipline and resilience that sport teaches.” During her visit, Cheta spent time mentoring and interacting with young girls and local athletes, witnessing first-hand the growing interest in women’s rugby and rugby league. “The future here is very bright,” she said. “Women are already leading training sessions, growing in confidence and teaching the younger one the sporting code discipline, teamwork, communication and resilience. These are lessons that athletes have to apply both on and off the field.” She acknowledged the cultural barriers that some girls in PNG may face but urged them not to give up. “For me, rugby has always been a tool for empowerment,” she said. “Even if the path is unfamiliar or not widely accepted at first, trust in your passion. Your journey matters.” Cheta also emphasized that behind the sport lies a sense of joy and belonging. “Keep doing the work, keep showing up—and have fun,” she said with a laugh. “That’s what keeps you going.” Looking ahead, Cheta remains grounded about her playing career. She acknowledges that while it’s a privilege to represent her country, preparing for life after rugby is just as important. “I’m thankful for everything rugby has given me, but I also want to be ready for the next chapter,” she said. Before leaving PNG, Cheta expressed sincere gratitude for the hospitality she and her colleague Andrew received during their stay. “It’s been an incredible trip, and I hope to come back. The spirit here is powerful, and the people - well especially the young girls, they have so much potential,” she concluded. Cheta Emba’s story is not just about athletic triumph but it’s about courage, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to follow a dream, even when the world doesn’t yet understand it. Her visit leaves a message of hope and determination for the women of Papua New Guinea.