Millie Elliott Set for Remarkable Origin Comeback
Millie Elliott will return to the rugby league field for the New South Wales Blues in Women's State of Origin I on Thursday. This match marks her first game since giving birth just seven and a half months ago.
"I think it's massive, just to be able to come back and play Origin after having a baby," Elliott said.
A Direct Return to the Top
In a testament to her talent and status, Elliott returns directly to the Origin side—the defending champions—without playing any lower-grade matches beforehand.
Her only competitive action this year came earlier in the season when she participated in the NRL Nines competition with the Roosters.
Support System and Career Decisions
To manage the demands of elite sport and a new baby, Elliott's mother has moved into the family home to help care for baby Gigi throughout the season.
Elliott credited the Roosters organization and the advent of multi-year NRLW contracts as crucial factors in her decision to have a child while still playing.
The Challenge of Postpartum Return
Elliott acknowledged the unique difficulty of returning to play after childbirth. She described the process as similar to returning from a significant injury, requiring dedicated "prehab and rehab" to get back to match fitness.
She noted that as a part-time athlete, she was already accustomed to balancing multiple responsibilities, which made adding a baby to the mix less daunting than it might seem.
"I'd always said I'd have a baby and it's probably been easier because I'm a part-time athlete."
From Doubt to Readiness
While Elliott admitted to having early doubts about her ability to return postpartum, she now feels fully prepared and ready to take the field. This Thursday's clash will not only be a milestone in her career but a powerful statement about the evolving landscape of women's sport.