The Dolphins have made a significant addition to their forward pack by signing 20-year-old Kulikefu Finefeuiaki on a three-year deal. Finefeuiaki, also known as “Kuli”, previously played for the North Queensland Cowboys and represented Queensland’s under-19s team in 2022. As a Redbank Plains junior who came through the Ipswich Jets system, Finefeuiaki brings youth and energy to the Dolphins squad.
With numerous forwards on the roster aged over 30, including seasoned players like Jesse Bromwich, Mark Nicholls, Jarrod Wallace, Kenny Bromwich, and Felise Kaufusi, Finefeuiaki’s arrival will inject fresh talent into the team. Despite his young age and limited NRL experience with 19 games for the Cowboys, Finefeuiaki has already shown promise and potential for the future. His addition to the Dolphins’ lineup is expected to bolster the team’s performance and provide a promising outlook for the seasons ahead.
Dolphins CEO Terry Reader expressed the club’s enthusiasm for having Finefeuiaki on board, emphasizing the importance of recruiting players who can contribute not just in the short term but also as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen the squad. Finefeuiaki’s background as a New Zealand-born player who moved to Queensland at a young age and developed his skills through the local rugby league programs showcases the diversity and talent present within the Dolphins’ ranks.
Finefeuiaki’s visit to the Dolphins’ facility in Redcliffe and the endorsement from coach Wayne Bennett indicate a mutual excitement and optimism about the young forward’s potential impact on the team. As the Dolphins aim to build a competitive and resilient squad, signings like Finefeuiaki demonstrate the club’s commitment to strategic recruitment and development of talent. With a focus on nurturing young players and building a strong core group, the Dolphins are positioning themselves for success in the upcoming seasons.
The addition of Finefeuiaki to the Dolphins’ forward pack represents a step towards revitalizing and reinforcing the team’s lineup with fresh talent and energy. As the NRL continues to evolve and become more competitive, clubs like the Dolphins are looking to secure promising players who can make an immediate impact while also contributing to long-term success. Finefeuiaki’s signing reflects the Dolphins’ commitment to building a dynamic and competitive roster that can compete at the highest level in the NRL.
Overall, Finefeuiaki’s recruitment by the Dolphins signals a strategic move to strengthen the team’s forward pack and enhance their competitiveness in the NRL. With a mix of experienced veterans and young talents like Finefeuiaki, the Dolphins are poised to make a mark in the league and establish themselves as a formidable force on the field. As the 20-year-old powerhouse joins the club on a multi-year deal, his potential to grow and contribute to the Dolphins’ success highlights the team’s dedication to building a strong and dynamic squad for the future.