New Episode Now Live: Lailani Montgomery on Culture, Community and the Future of Pathways
A powerful new episode of In Sport is now live, featuring NRLW athlete Lailani Montgomery in an honest and inspiring conversation centred around culture, community, and the next generation of talent coming through the game.
Released as part of the ongoing storytelling around the Queensland Murri Carnival (QMC), this episode shines a light on the deeper impact of community football and why these spaces continue to play such a critical role in shaping athletes.
More Than the Game
In this episode, Lailani reflects on her journey from grassroots sport on the Central Coast to the NRLW and All Stars stage — but more importantly, she shares what sits underneath that journey.
From cultural identity to confidence, discipline, and growth, this conversation highlights what it really takes to pursue elite sport while staying connected to where you come from.
She speaks candidly about:
leaving her comfort zone at just 18
the mindset required to keep progressing
the pressure athletes carry, especially young women in the game
and the importance of backing yourself when opportunity comes
Why Community Carnivals Matter
A key focus of the episode is the role of community competitions like QMC and the Knockout — not just as events, but as genuine pathways.
Leilani and the Inspo team explore how these carnivals provide something many structured systems cannot:
confidence
connection
cultural grounding
and a space where athletes play freely and authentically
The episode reinforces a growing conversation across the game — that some of the best talent in the country is already present in these competitions, and greater visibility from clubs and pathways programs is needed.
Representation and the Next Generation
Beyond performance, the episode highlights the importance of representation.
Leilani shares what it meant to run out as a proud Aboriginal woman, describing moments like All Stars as experiences where the result didn’t matter — being there and representing her people did.
That same presence is now inspiring the next generation, with young girls and boys seeing themselves reflected in players like her and beginning to believe in what’s possible.
Now Streaming
This episode is a powerful reminder that the journey in sport is never just about making it — it’s about the people, culture, and community that build you along the way.
Watch the full episode now inside the IN SPORT app
Search IN SPORT on the App Store or Google Play
Follow the Journey
More stories from the Queensland Murri Carnival and beyond will continue to be released, showcasing the voices, talent, and pathways shaping the future of the game.
