The Melbourne Rebels are thrilled to announce the key re-signing of Victorian Wallaby, Pone Fa’amausili.
The homegrown product has inked a new two-year deal and will remain at the Rebels until at least the end of the 2025 Harvey Norman Super Rugby Pacific season.
Fa’amausili’s retention will further boost a world class Rebels forward pack, boasting Wallabies Taniela Tupou, Sam Talakai, Matt Gibbon, Jordan Uelese, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and returning Rebels Captain, Rob Leota.
Today’s announcement continues an exciting few weeks for the Club, following the blockbuster signings of international stars Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Darby Lancaster.
The proud Victorian’s signing coincides with the Rebels kicking off its two-week TAC Community Blitz, as the Club looks to strengthen its connection with grassroots rugby across the state, and thank its community for their amazing support in 2023.
Fa’amausili enjoyed one of his most consistent campaigns this year, with the hulking prop instrumental in providing late game impact, becoming one of seven Rebels to play every game this season.
A member of the Melbourne Rising in 2017, Fa’amausili made his Rebels’ Super Rugby debut in Round 15, 2018 against the Sunwolves at AAMI Park, before a series of eye-catching performances in the 2020 Super Rugby AU competition led to selection in the Wallabies 2020 and 2021 international squad tours.
In 2022, Fa’amausili would follow in the footsteps of Victorian Wallabies Jordan Uelese and Rob Leota, making his Test debut during Australia's Argentine leg of The Rugby Championship.
Since beginning his Super Rugby journey, Fa’amausili has gone on to play 40 matches over six years for his hometown team and remains one of the Rebels’ most important players on and off the field, with his strong connection to the Victorian Rugby community helping grow the game of rugby and inspire the next generation of Melbourne Rebels.
Fa’amausili said he couldn’t wait for next season, as he looks to become the second ever Victorian to play 50 Caps for the Rebels.
“I’m thrilled about locking up my future with my hometown team,” said Fa’amausili.
“We’ve experienced real growth this year both on and off the field, and I’m excited for us to take it to a whole new level in 2024.
“Since beginning my journey with the Rebels, it’s been awesome seeing more and more Victorians progress through our pathways and make a name for themselves on the Super Rugby stage. It’s something I’m really proud of and passionate about, and a role I’m excited to continue playing.
"I'm also really happy to be able to re-sign and stay connected with my family here in Melbourne. They're my support system here and really help me day in and day out with my footy”
Melbourne Rebels GM of Rugby, Nick Stiles said the Rebels were thrilled to continue the strong off-field momentum, locking in an important player for next year’s campaign.
“Pone worked really hard on his consistency on and off the field and to his credit, he performed strongly and played every game this year,” said Stiles.
“As we continue to grow as a Club, we’re really excited about the impact Pone is going to have and believe his best rugby is ahead of him.
“Off the field, he’ll continue to be a key driver as we look to strengthen our connection with the community ahead of what will be an exciting decade for rugby in Victoria.”
