The Sapphires star Jessica Mauboy shares her passion for rugby league on the eve of Dally Ms
Kathy McCabe National Music Writer
News Limited Network
September 23, 2013 12:00AM
THEY have been booted out of the finals in controversial style but Jessica Mauboy believes her beloved North Queensland Cowboys won't be going home empty-handed from the Dally Ms on next week.
The NRL ambassador and voice of their 2013 television campaign has been a league fan since she was a child, when her father would take the five Mauboy sisters through their paces.
No touch, only tackle.
"Back home in Darwin, the family would gather and play a real game, no joke, the whole body was in," she says.
"That was one of dad's lessons to us girls, how to be tough and I loved growing up with that kind of strength."
Even now, the 24-year-old singer and actor is quick to kick off her shoes and throw the ball around with some mates.
Mauboy becomes emotional when paying tribute to her favourite player, the retiring Matt Bowen.
"He's a great legend and I thank him very much for his spirit and fair play in so many games," she says.
"I think musicians and the players share the same attitude about our commitment to performing at our best, to winning people over.
"And I understand defeat too, and finding the courage to get up and perform like you never have before."
The Sapphires star will be presenting a medal on rugby league's big night joked she would leave the lion's share of the spotlight to the players and their beautiful WAGs.
"To be part of the NRL family this year has been phenomenal and I can't wait to do more," she says.
"But I am not competing with the WAGs on the night. It's about the players and their lovely partners."
The 2013 Dally Ms are at Sydney's The Star Event Centre on Tuesday, October 1, hosted by Tony Squires.
Charlotte Dawson and Matt Shirvington will host the live red carpet coverage, with the award ceremony broadcast on Fox Sports from 8.30pm.
