Kylan Mafoa is carving out his own legacy in the world of rugby league following the example of his mother Leilani Burnes.

While Burnes made a name for herself in the union code with her skill and determination, Mafoa has chosen a different path in league.

Despite the different form of rugby they play, the passion they share for the sport remain a strong connection between mother and son.

“I’ve always looked up to my mom. She’s taught me so much about perseverance and following my dreams,” he said.

The Manly Jersey Flegg prop said it’s always been a dream of his to don the white jersey one day.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to represent Fiji since I was a kid.

“I’m just, I’m extremely grateful and excited to do it, to finally give back in a way that I can it’s, it’s really good.”

Mafoa said he didn’t expect to be named into the Fiji Bati side for the Pacific Bowl Championship.

“I had the mind-set, I played my best throughout the year and I was telling myself if I get a call, I will receive it.”

He said they had not yet started training for the Championship as all the boys were not in yet.

“Rest of the boys will come in later in the week, and I reckon we’ll have a meeting around and then get into it.

“I assume training will start next week. Just right now we’re just experiencing the culture and doing our part.”

He said he was very excited for what was in front of him.

The Fiji Bati takes on the PNG Kumuls in their Pacific Bowl competition opener at 8pm next Friday.

The match will be played at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.