David Fifita fought back tears as he paid tribute to his late father and described South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett as a “second father” before Friday’s NRL elimination final.
Fifita’s father, Siaosi, died on September 12 last year, meaning the Rabbitohs’ clash with Newcastle at Allianz Stadium comes almost exactly a year after his death.
The South Sydney forward said he would dedicate his performance to his father, who he believes will be watching from above as he makes his finals return.
“I do everything for him,” Fifita said. “I know he’s looking down on me, and I will make him, my mum, and everyone proud in Brizzy.”
He had expected to be in Queensland with his family to mark the anniversary, but will instead take part in his first finals match since 2021.
Fifita also credited Bennett with helping him revive his career after a difficult period at the Gold Coast Titans, where foot and ankle injuries had restricted him and left his future uncertain.
“He was very much like a second father,” Fifita said of Bennett. “He just gave me a hug, spoke to me about what he can do for me and what I can do for him.”
The 26-year-old joined South Sydney for the 2026 season and has made 16 appearances, returning to his best form since round 23. He recently underlined that progress with a 75-metre try against the Titans.
Fifita said the support he had received from Bennett and the Rabbitohs had helped him overcome periods of self-doubt.
“I had some dark days, just second-guessing myself and thinking, do I still have it?” he said. “But I’m really confident in my ability.”
South Sydney, who finished sixth, will face seventh-placed Newcastle with a place in the next stage of the finals at stake.
