Samantha Chikirov and Thomas Ciot Reach 50 Games for the Gungahlin Eagles

This week the Gungahlin Eagles celebrate two players who have given so much to this club. Congratulations to Samantha Chikirov on 50 games for the Eagles Women, and to Thomas Ciot on reaching 50 First Grade games — two milestones that reflect years of commitment, sacrifice, and love for the red and black.

SAMANTHA CHIKIROV — 50 GAMES FOR THE EAGLES WOMEN

Samantha Chikirov’s story with the Gungahlin Eagles Women is one of the most remarkable in the program’s history — because she has been there from the very beginning.

Her journey dates back to 2017, when she was part of the early 7s and 10s sides that helped lay the foundations for what the Eagles women’s program has become today. As the program evolved into Premier XV competition, Sammy evolved with it — becoming exactly the kind of player a growing team needs. Tough, reliable, selfless, and completely team-first.

Whether carrying hard into contact, holding firm at scrum time, or coming out of multiple attempted retirements when front-row depth was thin, Sammy has always done what the team needed without complaint or hesitation. That is the mark of a genuine club person.

Her journey has included injuries, setbacks, big wins, and tough days. Through all of it, Sammy has continued to show up with courage, humility, and heart. Fifty games is an extraordinary milestone for any player — but for someone who has been part of building this program from the ground up, it carries a meaning that goes far beyond the number.

The Eagles Women would not be what they are today without players like Samantha Chikirov. Congratulations Sammy.

THOMAS CIOT — 50 FIRST GRADE GAMES

Fifty First Grade games for the Gungahlin Eagles is a significant achievement for any player. For Thomas Ciot, it is a milestone that reflects exactly the kind of person he is — hardworking, uncompromising, and completely committed to the team.

After moving to Canberra following the completion of his university studies in Wollongong, Tom quickly found a home at the Nest and became a valued member of the Eagles family. His no-nonsense style of rugby was immediately evident — physicality, toughness, and determination in every game, every training session, every scrum.

A versatile forward across Number 8, Flanker, and Lock, Tom has always put the team’s needs ahead of his own. Whatever position the team required, Tom filled it without question. That kind of flexibility and team-first attitude is invaluable in a squad.

And off the field, Tom is equally dependable — a terrific clubman who is consistently willing to lend a hand and contribute around the club. Fifty First Grade games is a well-deserved recognition of his commitment, character, and lasting contribution to the Gungahlin Eagles.

Well done Ciotty.

HERE’S TO THE NEXT 50

Congratulations to both Sammy and Thomas on their milestones. Two very different journeys to the same number — and both a tremendous credit to the Gungahlin Eagles Rugby Union Club. Get down and help us celebrate these two deserving Eagles this Saturday.

Up the Eagles!