Peter Mamouzelos has expressed his ambition to play rugby league in Greece, a goal that has been hindered in the past due to the sport’s ban in the country.
Although he represented Greece at the 2022 World Cup, he was unable to play any matches in Athens, with home games forced to be played overseas.
“Our ‘home’ games actually had to be played overseas, and we played in London against Norway [in an RLWC qualifier] because it was illegal to play in Greece,” Mamouzelos explained.
The situation has improved since then, with Mamouzelos hopeful for more support from Greece, especially after their qualification for the World Cup.
Mamouzelos, who has Greek roots through his parents, Denise from Zakynthos and Theo from Kalymnos, has solidified his role as South Sydney’s starting hooker under Wayne Bennett.
He hopes to inspire more Greek players to enter the NRL as rugby league grows in Greece.
“Now that rugby league is growing over there… we will hopefully see more Greek players in the NRL,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of representing his heritage, saying, “I want to put Greece on the rugby league map.”
Souths hooker Peter Mamouzelos has declared his ambition to play in Greece after previously being denied because rugby league was illegal. https://t.co/n2qJqYk4eG
— NRL (@NRL) April 2, 2025
Before turning his attention to his heritage, Mamouzelos will play against the Sydney Roosters in Friday night’s Multicultural Round clash.
This match holds significance, especially due to the clubs’ deep-rooted rivalry and their strong Greek connections through chairmen Nick Pappas and Nick Politis.
Despite the Rabbitohs’ current success, Mamouzelos described the rivalry as one that all players look forward to, with a special intensity felt from a young age.
“From a young age, it’s taught to you as a Souths player to hate the Roosters,” he said, recalling a motivational speech by the club’s mascot that left a lasting impression.
Additionally, Mamouzelos shared his thoughts on the signing of Brandon Smith from the Roosters, assuring fans that he felt secure in his role at Souths after speaking with Bennett.
“Wayne’s just given me a simple role this year, just to be Pete, and to play to the best of my ability,” he said.
Mamouzelos expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity to learn from Damien Cook and the enjoyment he finds in starting and playing key minutes for the team.
“I’ve had a lot of time to work on my game, and now that I’m here I’m just trying to put my best foot forward.”
Source: NRL News.
