Talesha Quinn ready for revenge in Origin clash after five years out

THE last time Talesha Quinn ran out for the Blues, the Sydney Swans were on their way to an AFL flag and Psy was rocking Gangnam style.

Talesha Quinn (left) and Jessie Sergies in Origin camp at Kiama. Quinn is pulling on a Blues jumper for the first time since 2012. Picture: Tim Hunter

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THE last time Talesha Quinn ran out for the Blues, the Sydney Swans and Melbourne Storm were on their way to Grand Final wins and Psy was rocking Gangnam style.

It’s been so long in-between drinks in fact, some mistakenly thought she was actually making her debut in today’s interstate challenge against Queensland.

“People said that but I said, no, no, I played in 2012. I just moved away after that,’’ Quinn said.

A career with the army saw Quinn posted to Townsville, a shift she was originally delighted with.

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MORE THAN PRIDE ON THE LINE IN ORIGIN

Talesha Quinn (left) and Jessie Sergies in Origin camp at Kiama. Quinn is pulling on a Blues jumper for the first time since 2012. Picture: Tim Hunter

“I asked to get posted there because there was such a strong rugby league competition. And then it stopped so I had to play rugby union instead,’’ said Quinn, a supply co-ordinator with the army.

“I tried to get involved with Queensland a bit but I didn’t really want to because I’m from NSW and it just didn’t feel right.’’

Quinn said watching a delayed coverage of NSW beating Queensland last year on TV had triggered the move back home to pursue her sporting dream.

Talesha Quinn in action for Townsville before she moved back to Sydney. Picture: Brendan Radke

“I just love rugby league. I just love playing it,’’ said Quinn, who requested and received a new posting back to Sydney and now plays with the Cronulla Sharks.

“The army were really supportive and I got into an elite sports program with them which helped me get the right posting here and trial for the Cronulla Sharks.

“Then I got picked up for City-Country and then called into the Origin squad.

Talesha Quinn’s rugby league career went on hold when she joined the army. Picture: Evan Morgan

“I’m living my dream.’’

Quinn and fellow NSW players are also hoping to impress selectors in today’s Origin match ahead of a Jillaroos team being named for the World Cup later this year.

“But really, I just want to feel what the girls felt last year,’’ Quinn said.

“The only game I played in we lost. I want to know what it feels like to win for the Blues.’’

SUNDAY

-Harvey Norman Women’s Interstate Challenge

-NSW v QLD (Nellie Doherty Cup)

-11.45am. WIN STADIUM WOLLONGONG

-TV: FOX LEAGUE