Wales’ rising star Aiono proud of Samoan heritage

When the door of opportunity opened for Jorja Aiono, true to her Samoan heritage, she didn’t just walk through it, she tore it down.

The Swansea teenager was outstanding on debut against Scotland in the Women’s Six Nations, and was rewarded with starts against France and England.

Aiono looked every bit at home against the game’s big hitters and has drawn praise for her power and work rate.

“I play like my dad,” admitted the 19-year-old lock, daughter of former Neath, Ebbw Vale, Glamorgan Wanderers and Llandovery back-row forward Nio.

“My dad’s from Samoa, he was a big carrier as well. He used to play in New Zealand and Australia.

“My uncle [Afa Aiono] captained Samoa Sevens, which is really cool, and my brother played for the under-20s.

“We all back each other up, and with Sisilia [Tuipulotu] also Polynesian, she took me under her wing… we’re kind of a family.”

Aiono, 19, is studying sports science at Hartpury University and is on the books of Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) champions Gloucester-Hartpury.

But it was her work for Celtic Challenge side Brython Thunder this season that caught the eye of Wales head coach Sean Lynn.

She was one of nine uncapped players in his Six Nations squad and was thrust straight into the starting line-up for the opener against Scotland at the Principality Stadium.

“It was such a shock, though it’s nice to see the coaches believe in me,” said Aiono.

“I just couldn’t stop smiling on the day, it’s all come so quickly.

“It’s been a privilege. I was really impressed by myself. It’s nice to see that hard work does pay off.”

Aiono’s performances have drawn praise from all angles and Lynn says her point of difference is her physicality and work rate.

“That’s where the game is going, we need to be sure that we’re working hard for each other and that’s everything in a nutshell about Jorja Aiono,” he said.

Past players have also been impressed.

Phillippa Tuttiett said she “seamlessly slotted in” while there was also been mentions of her as a potential bolter for next year’s first women’s British and Irish Lion tour of New Zealand.

“It’s nice to hear that people are praising me,” Aiono said.

“Walking around the stadium and there’s like little kids asking for my signature, it makes me feel ‘wow, I’m an inspiration’ which is pretty motivational.”

Wales return to Six Nations action on Saturday with a trip to Belfast to take on Ireland (18:30 BST).

Wales are on an eight-game losing streak in the tournament, but are encouraged by their four-try effort against England last time out.