Queensland star Tamika Upton and her nan shared an emotional moment after the Maroons’ 22-6 victory in the first-ever women’s State of Origin decider in Townsville.
Speaking post-match, Upton was joined by members of her extended family as Queensland celebrated back-to-back series wins.
Among the group was Upton’s No.1 supporter — her grandmother Helen.
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“I’m so proud of her,” Helen told Nine’s Allana Ferguson.
“I’m proud of her without the win but I’m proud of her an extra bit with the win.”
Tamika Upton and her nan Helen share a special moment following Queensland’s Women’s State of Origin victory. Nine
A staple at Upton’s games since she was a “tiny, little girl”, Helen beamed up at her granddaughter.
“She’s so good,” she said.
In a moment that Ferguson labelled “precious”, Helen then reached out and grabbed Upton’s hand — holding on for the remainder of the interview.
Moments later, vision showed Helen holding the shield.
Tamika Upton of the Maroons celebrates with family and friends after winning Origin III and the 2024 Women’s State of Origin series. Ian Hitchcock via Getty Images
Upton was one of many standouts in what was a dominant display by the Maroons.
She saved a certain try in the second half and despite the conditions, managed to have a safe display at the back as opposition fullback Emma Tonegato struggled.