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The Dolphins have locked in three rising stars from their academy system, securing Tevita Naufahu, LJ Nonu and John Fineanganofo on extended deals that will keep them with the club through to 2027. The move solidifies the Redcliffe-based team’s focus on homegrown development, with the trio now positioned to become key contributors to the NRL squad in the coming seasons.
Emerging Talent Steps Up
Announced on 25 July, the Dolphins confirmed that Tevita Naufahu has been promoted to the club’s top 30 squad after a strong showing in the Hostplus Cup and a standout NRL debut earlier in June. The 18-year-old outside back, who transitioned from rugby union in New Zealand, ran for 176 metres in his first NRL appearance. Since joining the Dolphins this year, Naufahu has scored eight tries in nine games for the Central Queensland Capras, showing his ability to perform across multiple backline roles.
LJ Nonu, another young outside back, will become a development player for the 2025 season before joining the top 30 squad in 2026 and 2027. The talented back has played for both the Norths Devils and Redcliffe Dolphins in the Hostplus Cup this season, and caught attention earlier in the year with a hat-trick during a 50-4 trial win over the Cowboys. Nonu has already participated in an NRL pre-season with the Dolphins and remains part of the club’s academy and transition programs.
Future Squad Depth Secured
John Fineanganofo rounds out the trio, having also earned a contract extension that will see him move into a development spot in 2026 and the top 30 in 2027. Originally from Auckland and a product of Auckland Grammar School, Fineanganofo switched codes and joined the Dolphins academy via Redcliffe State High School. In 2023, he was selected for the Australian Schoolboys rugby league team. Now playing with the Capras, Fineanganofo has made ten Hostplus Cup appearances this year and has demonstrated versatility by covering several positions in the forwards and halves.
Local Pride, Long-Term Planning
The Dolphins’ latest signings are another sign of their growing investment in young talent and local development. All three players came through either the Dolphins academy or affiliated systems and have already shown promise at senior levels. The upgrades not only strengthen squad depth, but also reinforce the club’s intention to nurture players from the grassroots up.
While none of the deals were marked by fanfare, they reflect steady and focused work behind the scenes to develop players who can grow into consistent NRL performers. With Naufahu already making his first-grade debut and Nonu and Fineanganofo closely behind, the club’s future appears to be taking shape from within.
Published 28-July-2025
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