2018 has been a year to remember for league legends Laura and Hilda Mariu.
The pair not only tied the knot in March, but also played for the inaugural NRL women's premiership this month. That experience alone would've called for celebration for the league lovers, but there's also been a career change, a moko kauae and a Queen's honour.
Laura is the captain of the Kiwi Ferns, She's represented New Zealand since 2000, played in every World Cup and is the current captain. It's no wonder she was awarded a Queen's honour this year for her services to the sport.
League is in Hilda's blood too. She's in the Kiwi Ferns alongside her two sisters Rona and Kahurangi Peters. Hilda made the headlines earlier this month when she became the first sportsperson to have a moko kauae (Māori chin tattoo) on the world stage.
The couple met on the field and while it wasn't love at first sight, Laura says their encounter was memorable.
"We were playing in different teams, I was playing the ball she shoved me and then I exchanged some colourful words."
This year, Laura also took a step towards life after rugby league - she joined the police.
The couple have been together for six years and couldn't be prouder of each other's achievements.
"I've always been inspired by Laura - I've got the biggest role model right in front of me," says Hilda.
While the women's Warriors team didn't make it to the grand final this weekend, both Laura and Hilda believe the competition gave the women's game some much-needed exposure.
The Hui
