David Fifita has candidly revealed how his reunion with master coach Wayne Bennett at the South Sydney Rabbitohs has revitalised his NRL career, following a harrowing 2025 season marred by mental anguish and physical setbacks.
The Toll of Three Ankle Surgeries
The 25-year-old forward opened up about his struggles at the Brisbane launch of the Indigenous health initiative Deadly Choices, describing the past year as "a rough 12 months" that tested him profoundly.
"You people probably don't know what I have been through mentally. Having three surgeries on your ankle takes a toll on you," Fifita confessed.
His final season with the Gold Coast Titans was devastated by these recurring ankle issues, limiting him to just eight games under former coach Des Hasler and casting doubt over his future in the sport.
Bennett's Transformative Influence
Fifita credits Bennett with providing the mentorship and support system he desperately needed during this challenging period.
"I am over that now. I have the right people around me and a good mentor in Wayne," he explained. "I started my journey with Wayne back when I was 16 in high school. To be reunited with him means a lot."
The bond between player and coach runs deep, with Fifita emphasising Bennett's unique ability to offer both emotional support and honest feedback.
"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. I felt that connection with Wayne," Fifita shared.
A Fresh Start at South Sydney
The move to South Sydney represents a significant transition for Fifita, who acknowledged the difficulty of leaving his Queensland roots where his mother and grandmother reside.
"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 admitted.
However, he finds comfort in Bennett's presence, noting "Wayne is a Queenslander and I've got someone to lean on. I am not alone. He is with me and I feel good to be at the South Sydney Rabbitohs."
Fifita's potential in the Rabbitohs lineup is particularly exciting, with the prospect of playing outside creative half Cody Walker and inside powerhouse fullback Latrell Mitchell offering tantalising possibilities.
Queensland Origin Aspirations
With his health improving and his confidence restored, Fifita has set his sights on reclaiming his Queensland State of Origin jersey, having last represented the Maroons in 2023.
"For sure. I am always confident in my ability," he declared regarding his Origin ambitions. "Last year I only played eight or nine games ... but my ankle wasn't right."
He detailed his rigorous preparation, stating "I started pre-season early in November and the rehab and conditioning coaches have done a really good job. 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."
Expert Endorsement
Maroons legend Petero Civoniceva expressed strong confidence in Fifita's ability to return to his devastating best and earn Queensland selection once more.
"Yes, of course," Civoniceva affirmed. "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."
The former prop highlighted Bennett's proven track record with player development, noting "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."
Fifita first emerged as a formidable force under Bennett's guidance in 2018, and there is growing optimism that the master coach can once again unlock the back-rower's immense potential, delivering the consistent performances that have eluded him during five seasons with an underperforming Titans side.
