As Oceania prepares for its first-ever professional football league, the small island of Niue will be represented by its first professional football player.
23-year-old midfielder Jaylen Rodwell has signed with New Zealand’s South Island United, making history for the island nation with a population of under 2,000 people.
“It was crazy once I found out that I was the first ever Niuean professional footballer, I didn’t think that it was true to be honest, until people confirmed that for me,” he says.
“I’m just super grateful and super proud to be the first professional and hopefully to inspire others and local guys that also live back home in Niue.”
Rodwell began his football journey at South Auckland’s Manurewa FC, before moving through several clubs around Auckland and Wellington. He also played NCAA college football at the University of Portland.
His senior career has included stints with Birkenhead United, Edgeworth Eagles in Australia, Auckland United, and now South Island United in Christchurch, part of the south island’s first professional football team.
A goal of his since childhood, Rodwell said he was surprised when the call came to sign his first contract.
“It kind of came from nothing. I received a random phone call asking if I’d like to sign my first professional contract and it kind of went from there. Since I was a kid, I’ve always dreamed of signing that professional contract. To do that, especially on home soil, I’m super, super grateful for this opportunity.”
“It’s even better that I get to do that in my home country, New Zealand. I get to represent my family, my friends and my loved ones.”
A milestone for Niue footballers
Rodwell’s professional contract marks a historic moment for Niue football.
“It’s a very small country, so I’m super proud to carry that on my chest and represent not only New Zealand heritage, but also my Niuean family.”
He hopes to inspire the next generation through coaching at his local club.
“I coach them to inspire them and show them that anything is possible. If you work hard and keep your head down, you can do anything.”
“Even for my family, for my siblings, my brother and my sister, it’s also good to inspire them and to lead them and show them that you can sign a professional contract if you work hard and do the right things.”
Rodwell also expressed gratitude for the people who helped him along the way.
“I just want to thank everyone for my journey along the way. All the people that have helped me, coaches, family members, friends. I wouldn’t have got here without you guys.”
“I just really appreciate all the support and all the help throughout my years of football.”
Catch Jaylen Rodwell in action during Round 1 of the OFC Pro League. Get your tickets here.