Jordan Mailata, the towering offensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, has made history as the first Australian to start in and win a Super Bowl. The Eagles' dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX was not only a personal triumph for Mailata but also a moment of pride for Australia, Samoa, and the wider Pacific community.
As the final whistle blew at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Mailata draped himself in both the Australian and Samoan flags, proudly showcasing his dual heritage. The sight of the 166kg powerhouse standing tall with the flags of his birth nation and ancestral home was a powerful symbol of identity and belonging.
From Rugby League to the NFL
Born in Sydney to Samoan parents, Mailata’s journey to NFL stardom has been anything but conventional. Growing up, his sporting dreams revolved around rugby league, where he played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs' junior squads. However, in 2018, with no prior experience in American football, he took a leap of faith and joined the NFL’s International Pathway Program. That decision changed his life.
Mailata was drafted by the Eagles in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft. His raw talent and unmatched work ethic saw him develop into one of the most dominant left tackles in the league, protecting star quarterback Jalen Hurts and anchoring the Eagles’ offensive line.
A Moment of Pacific Pride
For Kiwis and the wider Pacific community, Mailata’s success resonates deeply. New Zealand has long been familiar with athletes of Samoan heritage achieving greatness on the world stage. From All Blacks legends like Tana Umaga and Jerome Kaino to UFC superstar Israel Adesanya, the impact of Pacific athletes is undeniable. Mailata’s Super Bowl victory adds another chapter to this proud legacy.
In a post-game interview, he reflected on his journey, offering words of encouragement to young athletes: “Don’t be afraid to take risks. Sometimes the biggest rewards come from stepping outside your comfort zone. I never thought I’d end up here, but hard work and faith got me through.”
His story is a beacon of hope for young Pasifika players dreaming of breaking into international sports. While New Zealand has yet to produce an NFL star, Mailata’s journey serves as proof that talent from this part of the world can thrive in the American football arena.
Growing NFL Interest in NZ and the Pacific
The NFL’s reach has been expanding in the Pacific, with more Kiwi and Pacific Island athletes eyeing the league as a legitimate pathway. With the success of players like Mailata and Tongan-born Penei Sewell, who is an All-Pro tackle for the Detroit Lions, more eyes are on the potential of rugby players transitioning to American football.
Could Mailata’s win inspire the next generation of Pacific athletes to pursue the NFL? It’s a question worth asking, especially as organisations such as the NFL Academy and the International Pathway Program continue to scout talent from rugby-heavy nations like New Zealand, Samoa, and Tonga.
A Champion’s Legacy
As Mailata soaked in the celebrations, his pride was evident. The Samoan flag draped over his shoulders was a tribute to his parents and ancestors, while the Australian flag honoured the country that nurtured his dreams. His story is more than just about winning a championship—it’s about resilience, faith, and embracing one’s roots.
For Kiwi fans, Mailata’s Super Bowl victory is a reminder that talent from the Pacific can shine on any stage. Whether it’s rugby, league, or now the NFL, the impact of Polynesian athletes continues to grow. And as Mailata lifted the Lombardi Trophy high, one thing was clear—this win belonged not just to him, but to his people, his culture, and the entire Pacific sporting community.
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