Work ethic to drive rising star Tevita Naufahu

Dolphins NRL Rookie of the Year Tevita Naufahu is not focusing on his breakout debut 2025 season, instead preparing to again “start from the bottom” and earn the right to run out on the big stage.

“As soon as I knew the offseason was coming to an end, I said: ‘I have to lock back in and start from the bottom’. There’s still heaps more to work on and a lot to do,” the 20-year-old says.

The winger is excited to rip into preseason training and the season ahead.

“After getting a taste, it’s driven me a bit more. The hunger’s a bit more and I’m keen to get back into it and be with the boys,” he says.

Naufahu has come through the pathways program and is a Dolphins’ success story, making his NRL debut in round 19 and going on to play seven games.

He scored six tries, and made one try assist and 12 linebreaks.

Naufahu says he is looking forward to the challenge of earning a spot in the team, as players such as winger Jack Bostock return from injury (round 10).

“My dad tells me: ‘it’s better you working for something than getting it handed to you’,” he says.

Naufahu is hoping to earn a spot in the starting side for the 2026 season opener.

“I’d love to run out for round one, especially for this club ... they’ve done a lot for me ... getting that round one would be a pretty surreal feeling for me,” Naufahu says.

Since making his debut, the young gun has grown in confidence on the field but knows he has much to learn.

“For me, it’s more that’s how I think. I’ve set my mind to it ... it’s more competing with the top athletes at this club and also learning off them and seeing what I can put in my game that they have to offer as well,” he explains.

“I think for me, (developing) more confidence with the boys ... telling them that I can be ready and show them I’ve got confidence in my game to go out there and do a job they need me to do.”

He’s already hit it off with newcomer and former Bronco Selwyn Cobbo, who has joined the squad at preseason training ahead of his Dolphins debut in 2026.

“I think I’ve created a bond with him already,” Naufahu says.

So, what’s so special about the Dolphins NRL club?

“Probably just the environment, I think. The support I get, especially a young boy coming from New Zealand ... this club’s done a lot for me as well ... and put their trust in me to put me out on that field and do a job for them as well,” he says.