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Taking a multicultural approach to wellbeing
With almost half of the NRL playing pool now made up of players who identify as Māori or Pasifika, wellbeing programs across the game are evolving to cater specifically to the intricacies which exist in those cultural groups.
This year the NRL began delivering the Pasifika Culture Competency Training, a module which encapsulates identity and culture, and how they link into the culture of a club, as part of its mandatory program delivery to players and football staff. Former New Zealand and Samoa international David Solomona, who is now the NRL players wellbeing program manager based in Queensland, sees it as a crucial step forward and says it is evidence of the benefits that come from having diversity in decision-making roles. "A lot of it comes down to the people that have a say in the creation of programs. I think in the past because it was such a new space, the NRL would create programs based off the ideas of two or three people in the office and then send it out," Solomona said. "Having input from people in different communities with different backgrounds, understanding where people sit, even just the difference between New South Wales and Queensland, is important. "I feel like it's a bit of a turning point for the game." The module was developed alongside Dr David Lakisa, who among his long list of achievements completed a PhD on 'Pacific Sport and Diversity Management'. Solomona says the sessions are run with Māori and Pasifika cultural customs in mind, and while tailored to those groups, they have value for everyone in the game. "We sit in a circle because we understand the importance of having a hui (gathering in Māori), having a talanoa (a term for a gathering commonly used by Tongans, Samoans, and Fijians) and being able to have everyone equal and part of the conversation," Solomona said. "That allows everyone to feel part of the group, no matter their culture, and this is good for non-Māori and Pasifika players to hear stories about why teammates might do the things they do. "When you celebrate one culture it allows the game to kind of celebrate everyone's culture as well." A similar approach is being rolled out across the ditch, with the New Zealand Rugby League wellbeing team leaning on a collection of former star players to help them further tailor their delivery. A league club with a particularly large Samoan contingent might have the message delivered to them by former Toa Samoa superstar Ali Lauiti'iti, a predominantly Tongan group could get six-time Mate Ma'a Tonga rep Epalahame Lauaki, while Māori women's great Krystal Rota is on the crew too. The NZRL work alongside Pasifika support organisation Le Va and suicide prevention training program LifeKeepers to deliver their Wellbeing Waka and Find your Front programs. NZRL wellbeing manager Cliff Thompson said the overall goal is to educate key people in rugby league communities to enable them to drive the wellbeing message. "It's asking them, what do these things mean in your culture or community? What's the closest concept to wellbeing in your culture?" Thompson says. "Because that's all wellbeing is, it's not what I think you need, a big part of it is listening to the individual about what helps them." In the end Solomona hopes the efforts to deliver a wellbeing message through a more multicultural lens will help current and future players avoid some of the issues he faced as a young NRL prospect at the Roosters. "Man, I made my mum and little brother move to Sydney for three or four months because I got too homesick. "Those experiences go into what I am trying to do in the game now. Hopefully this will make things a bit easier for the next group of players."All the NEWS. All the VIEWS.
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Lemalu Fred Ah Kuoi appointed Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit
We congratulate Lemalu Fred Ah Kuoi, New Zealand Kiwi #522 and NZRL Legend of League, on his appointment to the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours.
This significant milestone comes in recognition of Ah Kuoi's outstanding services to rugby league and the community, spanning a lifetime of heavy involvement in rugby league as a national and international representative player, and a grassroots coach, administrator, and supporter.
Ah Kuoi made his international rugby league debut for the New Zealand Māori team at the age of 18 in 1975, before debuting for the Kiwis later that same year, on the wing against Australia at Carlaw Park.
He captained the Kiwis for six tests in the 1980s, and at the age of 23 was the youngest Pasifika player to captain the Kiwis. He led the team to a historic 3-0 win against the touring Lions team in 1984, and would go on to play 47 games and 28 Tests for the Kiwis throughout his decorated career.
His contribution to the game extended beyond the field and into the community through his continued involvement with his beloved local club, the Richmond Rovers in Grey Lynn, Auckland, both during and after his professional career. He coached the Richmond Premier men's team for 10 years and became a founding director of the Richmond Rovers Rugby League Academy, a free development programme which has run for eight years to help young rugby league players excel in all areas of life.
After living in the United States for 17 years, Ah Kuoi returned to New Zealand in 2015 and established the ‘WAI - Who Am I’ course, delivered through the Department of Corrections to help mentor and develop young offenders in the community through physical training, discipline, and life coaching.
Congratulations Fred on this phenomenal and well-deserved achievement.
Remembering Ron Farrell
We very sadly acknowledge the passing of Wellington Rugby League great Ron Farrell.
Ron leaves behind an enduring legacy as the most capped Wellington representative ever, playing 81 games for the region over a renowned 12-year tenure from 1963 to 1975.
In 1966, Ron was selected as a reserve for the Kiwis in their second test against Great Britain, and in 1975, he went on to captain his Waterside club to their only ever Appleton Shield win in the Wellington Premiership.
A proud Ngāti Porou man, the talented prop, loose-forward, and second-rower was also a champion for Māori rugby league.
Ron was a gifted cross-code athlete as a competitive tennis player, and is fondly remembered as being a role model to young up-and-coming rugby league and tennis players alike.
We offer our deepest sympathies to Ron's whānau, friends, and the Wellington community at this deeply sad time, moe mai rā, Ron.
NZRL welcomes Benefitz as official print and signage partner
Auckland-based company Benefitz have partnered with New Zealand Rugby League as official print and signage suppliers.
In addition to printing and signage, Benefitz offers a broad range of services encompassing design, advertising, exhibitions, publishing, and web development.
NZRL General Manager of Communications and Marketing Amy Thomason shared,
“Since first connecting with Benefitz in 2025, their services and support have been outstanding, especially in helping us brand Go Media Stadium and Eden Park during the Pacific Championships.
“We’re very excited to bring them on board as official partners and look forward to working alongside them again this year, especially throughout our World Cup campaign.”
Benefitz Senior Account Manager Dan Ellensohn said, "We offer a wide range of solutions that add real value for NZRL when organising events, Amy and the team have experienced this first-hand at Go Media Stadium and Eden Park.
“The key is we produce these solutions at our solar-powered state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, offering advantages in efficiency and overall value. Benefitz also has a track record of 38 years of innovation, and as a team, we love working on events.
“We are excited about this partnership with NZRL, particularly with rugby league being on such a growth curve in New Zealand."

Rugby League Hawke’s Bay set to host NZRL senior Men’s & Women’s Premierships & Championships
In a first for the region, Rugby League Hawke’s Bay is set to host the NZRL Men’s Premiership North pool, alongside the National Women’s Premiership, and the National Men’s and Women’s Championship tournaments.
The action will unfold across one historic weekend from September 12-13 at Mitre 10 Sports Park, which boasts eight fields, a grandstand, and additional world-class facilities in the heart of Hastings.
RLHB Chairman Anthony Taueki Chairman shared, “This landmark occasion marks the very first time Rugby League Hawke’s Bay has been entrusted to host an NZRL event of this scale and we are truly grateful for the opportunity, the partnership, and the belief shown in our region.
“Hosting these prestigious national tournaments is more than just rugby league, it is a powerful opportunity to showcase Hawke’s Bay on a national stage, strengthen our local league community, boost regional economic growth through visitors and tourism and prove that our region is ready, capable, and deserving of future major tournaments.
“We invite our entire region to stand with us, show up, support, and help make this unforgettable weekend a true celebration of rugby league excellence.”
David McMeeken, NZRL National Football Operations Manager said,
“The work done by Rugby League Hawke’s Bay across the region has been outstanding, and the strong relationships formed by Rugby League Hawke’s Bay with Napier City Council, Hastings District Council and the Hawke’s Bay Sports Park team, have played a huge role in making these events possible.
“There’s real momentum building for rugby league in Hawke’s Bay. From growing participation at grassroots, through to the return of the Hawke’s Bay Men’s representative team at the 2025 North Island Championship, the District continues to show its commitment to developing and strengthening the game.
“NZRL are excited to bring our national tournaments to Hawke’s Bay and showcase the region on a national stage. These tournaments are about more than a game, they are an opportunity for Districts and Zones to share their pride and passion, and celebrate and represent their communities.”
This year will introduce a revised Premiership structure, featuring a tournament format that replaces the previous weekly competition model. The Men’s Premiership will continue to operate across two (2) pools; North and South. The top two (2) teams from both the North Island and South Island tournaments will progress to the national semi-finals in Auckland on Saturday 26 September, before the Grand Final is played on Sunday 27 September.
The South Island Men’s Premiership tournament will be hosted at Ngā Puna Wai in Christchurch, an exceptional venue which previously hosted Premiership fixtures and the 2025 National Youth Tournament.
The Women’s Premiership tournament will see all teams compete in Hawke’s Bay, with the top two (2) finishing teams advancing directly to the National Grand Final in Auckland on Sunday 27 September, alongside the men’s final.

The tragic passing of Eugene Hanna
We are deeply saddened that one of our rugby league whānau, Eugene Hanna of the Glenora Bears, has tragically passed away.
First and foremost, we send our sincere condolences to his whānau, friends, teammates, and all who knew and loved Eugene in such a difficult time.
This is truly heartbreaking and something we never want to see happen, and we are currently working alongside Auckland Rugby League, his club and other appropriate people.
NZRL places the utmost importance on player safety and welfare and work hard to prevent such tragic outcomes. We have rigorous head injury and concussion protocols in place and work with our rugby league community to ensure appropriate resources and education are provided year-round.
We urge anyone who sustains a head injury or experiences any symptoms to follow the guidelines in place, seek the appropriate medical advice and treatment, and only return to play when advised and appropriate.
You can find more concussion information and resources here: nzrl.co.nz/concussion

Two-time NRLW Premiership-winning coach Ronald Griffiths joins Kiwi Ferns
Ronald Griffiths has joined the Kiwi Ferns as an Assistant Coach ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign.
Widely regarded for his success in the women’s game, Griffiths brings extensive experience and achievement to Ricky Henry’s coaching staff.
Henry shared his enthusiasm to have Griffiths join the team, “Ron brings a winning record, a wealth of experience and a strong understanding of the women’s game.
“His leadership, authenticity, and football knowledge will build confidence within the group and enhance our culture and connection. I’m looking forward to working alongside him as we build towards the World Cup.”
As Head Coach of the Newcastle Knights NRLW side from 2022 to 2023, Griffiths guided the club to back-to-back Premiership titles before moving into the Knights’ NSW Cup Head Coach role in 2024.
Griffiths has called Aotearoa home since 2025, when he relocated with his whānau to take on the Warriors NRLW Head Coach role in their return to the competition.
Last year, he also coached the Indigenous All Stars men’s side before taking charge of the Cook Islands Moana women’s team during the Pacific Championships, and returning to All Stars duties earlier this year in Rotorua.
“The opportunity to represent New Zealand, it’s really important to me. I do it well and I do it with pride.
“Talking with Ricky around his philosophy, I think we’re going to be a great match because he’s got a certain skill set and I’ve got a different skill set. Being able to drive his vision, the Kiwi Fern vision, I think that's my strength and that’s going to help us at the back end of the year.”
The Kiwi Ferns will begin their World Cup campaign in Newcastle, Australia, on Sunday 18 October.
Kiwi Ferns Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Ricky Henry
Assistant Coaches: David Faiumu, Ana Fotu, Ronald Griffiths
Remembering Wayne Robertson Kiwi #508
We very sadly acknowledge and mourn the recent passing of Wayne Robertson, New Zealand Kiwi #508.
Wayne was a renowned and talented forward from Auckland who had an illustrious career, playing rugby league in Auckland, Brisbane, and Canterbury, in addition to playing three Tests for New Zealand.
A nephew of 1940s-50s Kiwis Maurice and Bruce Robertson, Wayne played for Brisbane Rugby League grand finalists Norths in 1967, earning selection in the Brisbane representative team before returning home to Auckland in 1968 to play for Ponsonby.
Venturing to the South Island, Robertson helped Hornby win the 1969 title and represented Canterbury. Returning home to Auckland in 1971, he toured Queensland with NZ Colts in 1973.
At age 27, Wayne went on to make his Test debut for the Kiwis, coming off the bench to replace Lindsay Proctor during the first Test win over Great Britain in 1974. Wayne would go on to play all three Tests against the Lions that year, starting in the second-row in the remaining two Tests, both won by the tourists.
Robertson was a standout at prop for Auckland against Australia in 1975 before being lured back to Hornby (along with fellow Auckland Kiwis Robert Jarvis and Murray Wright) in 1976. Despite making himself unavailable for Canterbury selection, he won the D.V. Syme Rosebowl as the 1976 CRL Sportsman of the Year winner, courageously playing on with a suspected broken arm later in the season.
Auckland’s best and fairest award winner in 1979 after joining Te Atatu, Robertson brought a long and distinguished top-level career to an end the following season.
Off the field, Wayne was a creative spirit. Operating out of his art studio in Howick, he became a celebrated painter, capturing the essence of the game’s spiritual home with his famed Carlaw Park prints. He was admired by many as a man of immense character, who gave back to the game after his playing days through coaching at Glenora and Richmond.
Wayne's contribution to the game was immense, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and dedication to rugby league. We offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Robertson family, his beloved clubs and communities across, and all who were fortunate enough to know Wayne.
Andrea Nelson MNZM appointed Chief Executive of New Zealand Rugby League
New Zealand Rugby League today announces the appointment of Andrea Nelson MNZM as its new Chief Executive, ushering in a new chapter for one of the most iconic sporting organisations in Aotearoa.
Andrea brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience across national and international sport, major global events, governance and commercial strategy.
Her appointment comes at a time of significant momentum for rugby league in New Zealand – from record participation growth and expanding pathways for wāhine and rangatahi, through to packed stadiums, growing broadcast audiences and continued success on the international stage.
NZRL Chair, Justin Leydesdorff, says the appointment panel were thrilled by the calibre of candidates for the role. Andrea stood out as an exceptional leader with both world-class experience and a genuine connection to the game and its communities.
“Andrea brings an incredibly rare combination of strategic leadership, operational delivery and authentic passion for rugby league.
“She’s worked at the highest levels of governance and commercial sport, and understands what it takes to grow organisations in complex environments. But equally as important to the code, she demonstrated a deep understanding of community sport and people.
“We wanted a leader who could sit across the table from the biggest decision-makers in international rugby league, but who would also happily pick up a tea towel at a local club on the East Coast. Andrea is that person,” says Justin.
Andrea has led major international sporting events - as NZ General Manager for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and helped lead the delivery and commercial development of the Oceania Cup, the precursor to the Pacific Championships.
She also held senior leadership roles across some of the world’s largest sporting organisations and events, including the London Olympic and Paralympic Games, FIFA U20 World Cup, ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Chair NZ Events Association and CEO Gymnastics New Zealand.
New Zealand will head into this year’s Rugby League World Cup campaign with the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis teams all strongly positioned on the world stage.
Nelson said returning to rugby league felt like a natural homecoming.
“I’m thrilled and honoured to be entrusted with the role of Chief Executive of NZRL.
“Being part of delivering the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in Aotearoa was a career highlight. While I’ve continued to work across sport since then, rugby league has always held a special place for me, so this in many ways feels like a homecoming,” she says.
“I am a huge believer in the power of sport to change lives for the better, and that sits at the heart of rugby league’s ‘More Than a Game’ kaupapa. Rugby league’s greatest strength has always been, and always will be, its people, and I look forward to working together to shape the future of the game.”
The appointment follows a sustained period of growth and transformation for rugby league in New Zealand under the leadership of exiting CEO, Greg Peters.
Participation numbers across the community game have continued to grow strongly in recent years, with wāhine and rangatahi participation more than doubling since 2021. In 2024, wāhine made up 20 percent of the national player base, while rangatahi accounted for 30 percent.
The sport’s premier youth tournaments have also experienced major growth, including more than 60 teams competing at the 2025 NZ Secondary Schools tournament – a 320 percent increase over seven years.
At the elite level, rugby league continues to thrive, with more than 38,000 fans attending last year’s Pacific Championships match at Eden Park – the largest rugby league crowd in Aotearoa in more than a decade – while television audiences for both the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns continue to climb.
Founded in 1910, NZRL remains one of New Zealand’s most storied sporting organisations, with rugby league continuing to play a vital role in communities across Aotearoa, particularly among Māori and Pasifika communities.

Hale finalises future ahead of World Cup
Kiwi Ferns captain Georgia Hale will lead New Zealand into the World Cup with her long term- future confirmed after inking a fresh two-year extension with the Titans.
A foundation Warriors and Titans NRLW player, the 30-year-old has developed into an instrumental leader for her club and country.
A member of the Warriors inaugural squad in 2018, Hale joined the Titans in 2021 and has further become one of the most respected figures in the competition; leading from the front with incredible performances and unwavering commitment to her teammates.
A Golden Boot winner in 2023 as the Women's International Rugby League player of the year, Hale has played 23 Tests for the Kiwi Ferns and last year notched her 50th NRLW appearance during the finals.
Titans coach Karyn Murphy said the New Zealand forward has been instrumental in shaping the club’s NRLW program both on and off the field, setting the standard with her professionalism, work ethic and passion for the jersey.
"Georgia is the heart and soul of our team," Murphy said.
"Her leadership, experience and care for her teammates are second to none, and she sets the standard every single day.
"She’s not only a world-class player, but an incredible role model who drives the culture of our program.
"She embodies everything we stand for as a club and to have her commit long-term is a huge win for not just our team but for our entire community."
Hale was 19 years old when she first travelled to Australia with the Kiwi Ferns in 2014 and the players had to pay half of the costs for the trip.
She is now set to captain New Zealand at RLWC2026, as the Kiwi Ferns seek to regain the trophy they held from the inaugural Women's World Cup in 2000 until Murphy led the Jillaroos to victory against their trans-Tasman rivals for the first time in the 2013 final.
The Kiwi Ferns draw for RLWC2026 is:
- October 18 v Fiji at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
- October 25 v France at One NZ Stadium, Christchurch
- October 31 v PNG at Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
The 2017 World Cup and the introduction of the NRLW in 2018 were game changers, and Hale has evolved from a playmaker to the protype lock at the Titans.
"From the moment I arrived, this club has felt like home," Hale said.
"We’ve built something really special here and I’m excited to continue that journey.
"There’s a strong connection between the players, staff and community and I’m proud to lead this group as we continue to grow and chase history together, winning that first premiership for the Gold Coast."
A Veronica White Medal winner in 2020, Hale grew up around rugby league because of her father Laurie’s involvement with the Warriors and Kiwis, and she developed a strong passion for a game.
She was a pioneer Warriors player in 2018 and joined the Titans when the club was forced to withdraw from the NRLW competition due to COVID. Hale has also played for Leeds in the Women’s Super League.
While she is now committed to the Gold Coast until at least 2028, Hale welcomed the return of the Warriors to the NRLW last year as a boost for New Zealand rugby league.
“We're going to get two seasons with the Warriors leading into the World Cup in 2026, so that's obviously going to build more depth,” Hale told NRL.com.
“I think the Kiwi Ferns is in a really good space. We've welcomed in a new wave of players over last year and this year and I think we're really hitting straps.
“We're working towards that World Cup goal, so I'm really enjoying the footy I'm playing and the girls I'm playing alongside.”
Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.
As seen on rlwc2026.com
NZRL's Pirtek Volunteer of the Month for April 2026
Our Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award returns for 2026, celebrating and recognising heroes from our grassroots rugby league community across Aotearoa for their hard mahi, dedicated to our game. This award is given to volunteers who display the core values of The Kiwi Way: being family first, innovative, inclusive, respectful, and humble.
We are proud to announce our first winner for 2026, the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award for April goes to Puti Muru from the Pikiao Warriors in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty.

Puti is known within Pikiao for consistently going above and beyond to support players and their whānau, especially the U10 boys team.
At a time when living costs such as fuel are high, Puti organises vans and transport for players to and from games, to ease the burden on families.
She is the first to arrive and last to leave on game days, often bringing her cooker to run a sausage sizzle so tamariki have kai without added cost to their whānau.
Behind the scenes, Puti works hard to keep the team connected, keeping clear communication with families around training schedules and game day timings.
Last season, she organised a team trip up to Auckland, where the players enjoyed an amazing day out at Rainbow's End, followed by a Warriors NRL game, rewarding them for all their effort and commitment throughout the season.
After the team weren't able to close off their 2025 season with a prize-giving ceremony, Puti is already determined to ensure the team will have one this year to celebrate not only the children, but also their parents and whānau as supporters.
Her big heart for the players, parents, and wider whānau, and her commitment to making sure the team runs smoothly and safely, does not go unnoticed.
Pirtek CEO Chris Bourke shared, "Congratulations Puti on being named Pirtek Volunteer of the Month!
"Your dedication to supporting your team and whānau truly reflects The Kiwi Way, consistently going above and beyond to support families, remove barriers, and put the kids first, making a real difference every week."
Know a volunteer who does exceptional mahi? Help us celebrate these grassroots heroes by nominating them for the next Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award.
Each monthly winner will receive $200 worth of vouchers and have their story shared across our channels.
Make a nomination here: https://share.hsforms.com/2Lq4cbueQRVCRwqK8vsfK_Qsy1ug

Eight young NZ talents instrumental in Bulldogs' Lisa Fiaola Cup victory
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have collected their second Westpac Lisa Fiaola Cup after a decisive 40-4 win over a gallant Central Coast Roosters in the Grand Final at Leichhardt Oval over the weekend.
The Lisa Fiaola Cup is the premier under-17 girls competition in New South Wales Rugby League, featuring pathway teams from NRL clubs across Sydney and wider Australia. The victorious Bulldogs side featured eight of Aotearoa's best young wāhine, most of whom have been living together in Sydney for the past few months to play for the club.
Akarana's Lala Vaea co-captained the Bulldogs side to their title win, and Counties Manukau representative Jada Breeze Gray was named Player of the Match.
All eight players have featured in NZRL national representative teams in the past two years, with twin sisters Caszius and Jaesynn-Ree Fatialofa, Jada Breeze Gray, Jayda Peo, and Shakira Lui part of the National Youth Tournament-winning Counties Manukau 16s and 18s sides in 2025, while Suraya Kingi was the 16s Girls National Youth Tournament MVP.
Congratulations to:
Caszius Fatialofa (Counties Manukau)
Emacyn-Eden Ieremia (Akarana)
Jada Breeze Gray | Player of the Match (Counties Manukau)
Jaesynn-Ree Fatialofa (Counties Manukau)
Jayda Peo (Counties Manukau)
Lala Vaea | Co-Captain (Akarana)
Shakira Lui (Counties Manukau)
Suraya Kingi (Counties Manukau)
The Bulldogs led the match at 12-0 at half-time before powering away after the break with their forwards proving too strong, with sisters Caszius and Jaesynn-Ree Fatialofa leading the charge.
Replacement hooker Jada-Breeze Gray was named a deserved Player of the Match after being injected into the match early in the first half when No.9 Jadia Taoai was forced from the field with an ankle injury and having a hand in several tries.
“We worked so hard this year, and we spoke about being in the moment off the back of being disappointed last year,” Bulldogs coach Vanessa Foliaki said.
“For us we spoke about the things that made us so good this year and that was going through the middle.
“Credit to the Roosters, they were outstanding last week, and we knew we had to turn up today and that’s what we did.”
Both teams had a point to prove in the decider. The Roosters were looking to go one better after missing out to Parramatta Eels in last year’s Grand Final, while the Bulldogs were looking to add another piece of silverware to their collection after winning the inaugural competition in 2024.
The Bulldogs suffered an early blow when hooker Jadia Taoai injured her ankle in a tackle. She tried to play on but eventually had to leave the field and was replaced by Gray.
“We spoke about next man up mentality and that’s what it is,” Foliaki said.
“We spoke about going through challenges and adversity, but we’ve got to stay in and keep our head up and keep moving for each other.”
Despite the setback, the Bulldogs forwards were proving a handful for the Roosters to contain. Fullback Emacyn-Eden Ieremia capitalised on the momentum when she threw a long ball for winger Meleane Hala to score in the corner for a 4-0 lead.
The Fatialofa sisters combined for the next try with Jaesynn-Ree falling just short of the line on the back of a powerful run, before Caszius crashed over from the very next play to extend the lead to 8-0.
“They’re cheeky, but they’ve been outstanding for us all season and are a big part of why we’re here today,” Foliaki said.
The Bulldogs also had a player sin binned, Jaesynn-Ree for a late tackle on kicker Lara Murray, but it hardly stopped their momentum.
The turning point came towards the end of the first half when the Roosters looked like they were going score through prop Keha Kahuroa, but some desperate goal line defence forced the ball free before she could plant it down.
The Bulldogs quickly turned defence into attack with five-eighth Lillyarna Sutupe putting a deft kick across field for Hala to grab a saloon bounce and race away to score for a 12-0 half-time lead.
The Bulldogs kept the momentum going after the break, Caszius grabbing her second for a rare double and Hala bagging one more for her hat-trick, to extend the lead to a commanding 40-0.
The Roosters never gave up and grabbed a consolation try through winger Silia Tuitufu at the end, after replacement Alissa McNair had intercepted a pass and gone a long run only to be pulled down just short of scoring one herself.
As seen on nswrl.com.au
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Junior Kiwi Hayze Perham makes triumphant return to the NRL after 3 years
Hayze Perham has vowed to repay the faith shown to him by the Brisbane Broncos after they re-signed him during the lowest point of his career.
After a 957 day wait to return to the NRL, Perham was unexpectedly thrust into the attack against Wests Tigers in Round 7, when injury ruled out makeshift Broncos fullback Jesse Arthars.
Last Friday, he made his first starting appearance since Round 27, 2023 - ironically against his former club the Bulldogs - and played a key role in Brisbane’s 32-12 win with 115 run metres and a try assist.
“Obviously, very grateful to be back on the big stage, especially an occasion like this, playing Anzac weekend at Suncorp, probably the best stadium in the NRL to play and for such a special occasion,” Perham said.
“I think it's been my first start since ‘23 last round, so very special for me.
“I've got a lot of my family here to watch, so it's a huge occasion.”
The former Māori All Stars representative was signed to a train-and-trial deal with the Broncos in early 2025, but ruptured his ACL in Brisbane’s Pre-Season Challenge game with the Titans and missed the entire season.
Starting 2026 with Brisbane affiliate club Souths Logan Magpies, Perham’s opportunity to return to the NRL has come as the club battle a growing injury toll, which is somewhat ironic given his own injury battles.
“I think hard's an understatement,” Perham said of his knee reconstruction.
“There was definitely a time midway last year when I thought I wasn't going to get through it, and it might have been the end of the road for me, but the Broncos, they really supported me.
“I came over on a one-year development deal and they signed me pretty much halfway through my rehab program.
“The faith that they showed me to get to this point now, it's obviously a huge occasion.
“I'm glad I got to repay them in some way to play (today) and then get the win for them.
“A knee reco’s not an easy thing to go through in any circumstance, (so) when they came forward to my manager and said that they wanted to keep me on for another year, when I haven't even touched the field yet, it was a huge uplifting moment for me.
“Showed that they noticed what I did in pre-season and they appreciated it.
“Just truly grateful for that.”
While Perham knows his time starting in the team will be limited depending on the injury return of Reece Walsh, he was still keen to extend his time and had been enjoying the opportunity to learn from Kangaroos representative.
“I'd love to stay here … I love all the boys and especially the faith that they showed me …
“I'm happy to do my job for the team, wherever it may be, but I'd love to be here.
“(Walsh) probably finished the year in the best form that anyone's ever been in, so to be around a player like that, even though he's a bit younger, he's a bit cheekier, but to learn off him, it's amazing.
“Obviously, he's had a bit hard start to the year with his injuries, but he's still around all of us, helping us through video, still out on the field; rolling around on his little tricycles, so he's still a huge help to all of us.”
This week, the Broncos travel to Allianz Stadium to take on in-form fullback James Tedesco and his Roosters team looking to claim their fifth win in a row.
As seen on nrl.com