Mel was born and raised in Southern Highlands, Papua New Guinea. Moved to Australia for educational opportunities at 14. She started her rugby journey with University of Queensland when a friend dragged her along to sign up. After three seasons of playing rugby union, a coach told her that she had the potential to play for Queensland. Two years in a row of knee injuries wasn’t going to stop her playing the sport she loved. She currently plays for the Melbourne Rebels Womens team. She is also a diehard NSW Origin fan. We chat plenty more on never giving up, having resilience especially in tough times and what living in France was like. 

Follow Mel on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniekawa/ 

About David Mead:

David Mead has played professional rugby league for 13 years. Spending time with other athletes, coaches and football staff has given him great insight into how the sport is played at a high level. He wants to use insights and stories from these people as well as from his experience to inspire and to empower the youth. He believes in "leaving the place better than you found it." This podcast will help him and others do just that. 

Connect with David and follow him on: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

Producer: Jason Strozkiy (@strozkiymedia)

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