The Western Force is delighted to confirm the signing of lock Lopeti Faifua.
Faifua, 21, joins the Force from the Queensland Reds and was previously named in the 2022 Junior Wallabies squad for the Oceania Rugby Under-20s Championship.
The second rower made his Super Rugby Pacific debut in 2022 against the Melbourne Rebels at AAMI Park in Round 9.
Melbourne-born and raised Faifua left Victoria to attend the renowned rugby-based Saint Kentigern College in Auckland and played for the Blues Under-18's side before moving across the Tasman in 2019.
Faifua has spent the past few weeks training with the squad in Perth and Force head coach Simon Cron was delighted to have him on board.
“We’re really excited to have Lopeti sign on,” Cron said. “He’s 6’6 with a big strong body. He’s explosive and powerful. He’s still only a young buck at 21-years-old.
“He’s a genuine lock with a willingness to learn. We’re really enjoying coaching him and are excited already with what he is bringing to training.”
Faifua said he was eager to take his rugby to the next level at the Force.
“Coming over to the West will be a different challenge, the change of location will allow me to focus and pour all my energy into my game,” Faifua said.
“I’ve spoken to Crono, he thinks the change will be good for me and will get me out of my comfort zone and test myself in areas I wouldn’t have otherwise.
“I want to play and do my best for the Force. I will put the effort in and give the Force all I can. The Force is heading in the right direction.”
Lopeti Faifua
Position: Lock
Height: 198cm
Weight: 115kg
Born: 22/01/2002
Place of birth: Myrtleford, Victoria
Senior Club: Wests
School: Saint Kentigern College, Auckland
Super Rugby debut: 15/03/2022 v Melbourne Rebels, AAMI Park
Super Rugby caps: 1
