David Fifita has opened up about his rejuvenated outlook on his NRL career, attributing much of his renewed enthusiasm to a reunion with coach Wayne Bennett at South Sydney. The 25-year-old forward, who endured a challenging 2025 season marred by injuries, is optimistic about reclaiming his place in the Queensland team after a difficult stint with the Gold Coast Titans.
Fifita’s struggles last season were significant, with three ankle surgeries limiting his appearances to just eight games under then-coach Des Hasler. Speaking at the Brisbane launch of the Indigenous health initiative Deadly Choices, Fifita was candid about the mental toll of his injuries and how reconnecting with Bennett has been pivotal in his recovery.
“You people probably don’t know what I have been through mentally. Having three surgeries on your ankle takes a toll on you,” he said. “I am over that now. I have the right people around me and a good mentor in Wayne.”
The Bennett Connection
Fifita’s relationship with Bennett dates back to his teenage years when he first joined the Brisbane Broncos. The bond they forged then has proven invaluable as Fifita navigates the next phase of his career. “To be reunited with him means a lot,” Fifita said. “He can give me a hug and be honest with me. I have someone to listen to me, have faith in me and trust in me.”
Under Bennett’s guidance in 2018, Fifita emerged as a formidable force in the NRL. The prospect of playing alongside talents like Cody Walker and Latrell Mitchell at the Rabbitohs has Fifita eager to prove himself once again. The move to South Sydney represents a fresh start, albeit a challenging one, as it involves leaving his family in Queensland.
“Queensland will always be home. It was very tough for me to get out of this area so for me to move down there … it is scary,” he said. “But scary is good. Wayne is a Queenslander and I’ve got someone to lean on.”
Aiming for Origin Glory
Fifita’s ambitions extend beyond club success; he is determined to don the Queensland jersey once more. His last appearance in the State of Origin was in 2023, and he is eager to add to his eight caps. “For sure. I am always confident in my ability,” Fifita stated. “Last year I only played eight or nine games … but my ankle wasn’t right.”
With a rigorous pre-season and the support of South Sydney’s rehab and conditioning coaches, Fifita is hopeful about his prospects. “Fingers crossed, I would love to be in that jersey again. I am a Queensland boy. There is a lot of hard work out ahead,” he added.
Expert Opinions and Future Prospects
Maroons legend Petero Civoniceva is optimistic about Fifita’s potential resurgence. “Yes, of course,” Civoniceva said when asked if Fifita could return to his best form. “Dave is just a wonderful athlete. It’s been tough with injuries and no doubt he’s done all the rehab and he’s primed.”
Civoniceva also highlighted the positive impact Bennett could have on Fifita’s performance. “To link up with Wayne Bennett … who’s been a wonderful motivator and influence on so many players … he would have had some great words of advice and he’s going to play some amazing football.”
As the NRL season unfolds, all eyes will be on Fifita to see if he can translate his renewed vigor into on-field success. The support of Bennett and the Rabbitohs could be the catalyst he needs to reignite his career and achieve his goals.
