Olivia Kernick opens up on her emotional journey from grand final hero to representative reject

Within the space of 24 hours Olivia Kernick went from grand final hero to the star snubbed from the Jillaroos – now Kernick reveals how she dealt with her emotions on that ‘bittersweet’ day.

NRLW Dally M medallist Olivia Kernick has broken her silence on the controversial snubbing from the Jillaroos, saying the disappointment dampened her grand final celebrations.

Kernick was a shock omission from the Australian women’s side for the upcoming Pacific Championships despite recently being crowned as the best player in the women’s game.

The selection furore has prompted the ARL Commission to launch an investigation into the team selection process, headed by coach Brad Donald.

The Jillaroos squad was announced on Monday, less than 24 hours after Kernick was also stunningly overlooked for the Karyn Murphy medal as best on ground in the Sydney Roosters’ dramatic grand final triumph over Cronulla despite scoring two tries.

Olivia Kernick has broken her silence on being snubbed from the Jillaroos.

“It was a bittersweet day. Having the best day and being around my teammates,” Kernick said on the Up Front podcast with Millie and Keeley.

“I just feel like, let them enjoy the Monday at least, you know.

“We had 12 hours of enjoyment. It was sad, and I know what I need to work on, and I was with my teammates. I actually enjoyed the rest of the day. I had a good time.

“It is what it is.

“Disappointed for myself, but so happy for the girls and I can’t wait to cheer them on.”

Grand final winning Roosters: Olivia Kernick, Millie Elliott and Keeley Davis.

Roosters teammate Millie Elliott was selected in what will be her first game in green and gold since her making her international debut in 2019.

Elliott was a surprise omission from last year’s Championships, while another Roosters teammate, hooker Keeley Davis, was another who left out of this year’s squad.

“I’m a one-hit wonder, played one game back in 2019 and (it’s) my first time back in the team. Obviously would’ve loved to be in there with you girls,” Elliott said.

“I feel like this year has been really special obviously living together, I feel like, not that I’ve ever not loved the game, but loved being with you girls.

“Every day we’ve reflected on how lucky we are to be doing what we’re doing.”

Originally published as Olivia Kernick opens up on her emotional journey from grand final hero to representative reject