SG Ball Cup team led by co-captains

Kayliss Fatialofa and Jaydee Auloa have been named as co-captains for the One New Zealand Warriors’ 2024 SG Ball Cup (under-19) side.

Both were involved in the club’s campaign last year, second rower-centre Fatialofa - just turned 19 this week - as a regular while hooker Auloa (18) was unfortunately ruled out with injury before the competition began.

They were confirmed in the leadership roles on Wednesday night when players, staff and families were in attendance for the launch of the One New Zealand Warriors' SG Ball Cup and Harold Matthews Cup (under-17) seasons.

Head coach Grant Pocklington said Fatialofa and Auloa were a natural fit to share the captaincy.

“They’ve both been outstanding throughout the preseason and have earned this,” he said.

“They’re in their second season with a squad and have consistently shown through with their leadership.

“Kayliss was a regular last year while Jaydee was set to be involved until injury ended his season.”

Manurewa Marlins junior Faitalofa excelled for De La Salle College’s First XIII, which won the New Zealand Rugby League’s national secondary schools’ grand final in 2022. He was named the tournament’s MVP.

He made seven appearances for the One New Zealand Warriors in the SG Ball last season.

Auloa is another product from the renowned St Paul’s College rugby league nursery. A Point Chevalier Pirates junior he has, like Fatialofa, come through the One New Zealand Warriors’ pathways system.  

The Warriors face the Parramatta Eels in Sydney on Sunday, February 4 in their opening match in the short-form competition. They have nine regular season matches aiming to make the top six for the finals series.