Footy and netball power couple open up about their romance – as AFL star reveals the moment he knew he’d found the love of his life
In an intimate reveal, Brisbane Lions’ Josh Dunkley and Queensland Firebirds’ Tippah Dwan have shared the touching details of their romance, including the pivotal moment Dunkley knew he had found his soulmate.
Josh Dunkley, 27, a key player for the Brisbane Lions, and Tippah Dwan, 24, a standout netball player for Suncorp Super Netball’s Queensland Firebirds, have been together for three and a half years.
Their relationship, which began through a family connection — Dunkley’s sister Lara, also a Firebirds player — blossomed despite the challenges presented by their professional sports careers and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brisbane Lions star Josh Dunkley and Queensland Firebird Tippah Dwan are happily in love
There were challenges early on in their relationship, with Dunkley living in Melbourne and playing for the Western Bulldogs
The couple has been together for almost four years now and has overcome distance and COVID lockdowns
The couple first met when Dunkley was playing for the Western Bulldogs but had traveled to Queensland for football.
“We first met through his sister Lara when Josh was in Queensland looking to play football in 2020, then spent a lot of time together in the off-season,” Dwan told News Corp.
‘I thought he was very beautiful, but I also immediately saw that he was a sweet boy.’
The geographical distance, coupled with the COVID lockdowns, presented many challenges for the young lovers.
‘Living in different cities, we would do anything to see each other whenever we got the chance. Even if it was just for a short time, we would do anything to see each other.” Dwan said.
Dunkley’s fondest memory is receiving a heartfelt gift and letter from Dwan during a particularly difficult period of isolation and recovery from injuries.
“When we lived apart and couldn’t see each other much because of COVID, I struggled with a shoulder injury and isolation. “She sent me a gift and a letter that I will cherish forever,” he said.
Dunkley said there was one gesture from Dwan during the tough times that he will always cherish
The young lovers are now one of the hottest power couples in Australian and Queensland sport
The couple shows support for each other and are regularly seen attending each other’s matches
And Dunkley admitted that he fell for his lover very quickly, despite their separation during the isolation period.
‘Getting to know each other after a few months. “I just felt like she was the one,” he said.
Their story is not only about romantic gestures, but also about the daily reality of sharing a life together.
From deciding who takes out the bins – Dunkley’s job – to determining who does most of the housework, they emphasize communication and mutual support as the foundation of their happiness.
“Always being willing to listen to each other, no matter the circumstances,” Dunkley said, was the secret to their happy relationship.
‘Also let the other person lead their own life and do things that make them happy.’
Dwan added: “Helping and understanding each other in difficult times, but also cherishing the good ones by making quality time for each other.”