Feagai embraces new Dolphins challenge

Dolphins NRL newcomer Max Feagai is looking forward to his first hit-out in a new jersey when he plays for the club in a Pre-Season Challenge game on Friday night.

The game, against the Cowboys in Cairns (7pm), will be his first opportunity to make a case for a spot in the top side.

The Dolphins are expected to rest most of their NRL stars for the clash, with the exception of Jake Averillo, Sean O’Sullivan, Junior Tupou, Mason Teague and Harrison Graham. Assistant Coach Nathan Fien will take the reins.

Feagai, who made his NRL debut for the Dragons in 2020 and had a breakout season in 2024, has signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins but knows breaking into the club’s NRL side will be a challenge.

The 23-year-old, who can play centre or winger, says part of the lure to Redcliffe was the opportunity to play with a star-studded spine and backline.

“That’s the thing about footy … it’s part of the challenge. You’ve just got to take it on. There’s a lot to learn off them as well. It will be good for me,” Feagai says.

He knows Friday’s game is his first chance to impress Head Coach Kristian Woolf and revealed how he plans to do just that.

“I think just go out and play my best footy, not just individually but the team as well. It’s an opportunity for everyone,” he says.

“There was a trial last weekend and some of those boys earned that opportunity again this week. It will be good to see them (in action) … a good first hit-out in some new jerseys.”

Feagai says he spoke to Woolf a few times last season and has a clear idea of what his new coach likes about his game, what can be improved and how he can get the best out of him.

“I think all the players here … the outside backs … I can learn off. We’ve got a young group over here as well as some older heads,” he explains.

“I think being a new club as well … I just want to come in and be a part of something.”

Feagai has left his twin Mathew at the Dragons but says he is adjusting well at the Dolphins.

“We are close but that was part of the challenge … making it a bit more uncomfortable for myself,” he explains.

“Someone pretty close to me said I’d probably perform better when I’m more uncomfortable. That was a big thing for me. It doesn’t get more uncomfortable than this, moving away from home but I’m loving it so far.”

Friday night’s game, in Cairns, is the first in the NRL’s Pre-Season Challenge.

The second is at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium on February 22. The venue is expected to be packed when it hosts a double-header – Broncos V Bulldogs at 4.30pm and Dolphins V Titans at 6.30pm.