Get ready to witness the rise of a rugby league star! Sebastian Su'a, the NRL rookie, is set to make waves after a challenging 2025 season with the Dolphins, where injuries threatened to sideline his promising career. But here's where it gets inspiring: his journey is fueled by the relentless work ethic of a former Test cricketer and the mentorship of a top-tier prop, both of whom have left an indelible mark on his path to greatness.
Sebastian’s father, Murphy Su'a, was a trailblazer in his own right—the first player of Samoan heritage to represent New Zealand in Test cricket. As a left-arm fast bowler, Murphy not only carved out a remarkable career but also paved the way for future legends like Ross Taylor, who followed in his footsteps with the Black Caps. But here’s where it gets controversial: while cricket runs in the family, Sebastian chose rugby league, citing its physicality as a key draw. Was this a rebellion against his father’s legacy, or a bold step toward forging his own identity?
Standing tall and agile, Sebastian is a forward who’s poised to make a name for himself in the NRL this year. His admiration for Dolphins and NSW prop Daniel Saifiti played a pivotal role in his move from Newcastle to the Dolphins. Saifiti, along with his brother Jacob, took Sebastian under their wing, offering guidance that felt like a perfect fit. And this is the part most people miss: Saifiti’s mentorship wasn’t just about rugby skills—it was about finding a culture where Sebastian could thrive.
Cricket was an early contender for Sebastian’s allegiance, but rugby league won out. 'I played cricket through school and club, but I chose rugby for its physicality,' he explains. His father’s high expectations, though initially overwhelming, ultimately instilled in him a work ethic that’s now driving his rugby league ambitions. 'In hindsight, I’m grateful for the pressure he put on me,' Sebastian reflects. 'It’s shaped my approach to the game.'
Murphy’s cricketing legacy—13 Tests, including a career-best 5-73 against Pakistan in 1993, and 12 ODIs—sets a high bar for Sebastian. 'Reaching the international level he achieved is definitely a goal of mine,' he says. 'Having him as my father and knowing he’s navigated professional sports, his guidance is invaluable.'
At 22, Sebastian secured an early release from the Knights after conversations with coach Kristian Woolf and senior forwards like Tom Gilbert and Saifiti. The Dolphins’ culture resonated with him, and Saifiti’s words sealed the deal. 'Daniel is someone I trust deeply,' Sebastian shares. 'When he spoke about the Dolphins, it just felt right. He’s been a great mentor, especially for younger players aspiring to reach the NRL level.'
Sebastian joined the Dolphins in March 2025, but his journey hit a snag when he tore his meniscus in his first training session. This is where the story could have taken a tragic turn, but Sebastian’s resilience and the support of his teammates kept him going. After a year of rehab, he returned to play late-season Queensland Cup games for Norths Devils. 'It was disappointing, but the boys here supported me through rehab,' he says. 'Now, I’m ready for the season ahead. I’ve only played one NRL game, but I’m determined to reach the next level.'
As Sebastian looks to the future, his story raises a thought-provoking question: In a sport where family legacies often loom large, can Sebastian Su'a not only live up to his father’s name but surpass it in a completely different field? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think he’ll make it to the top, and what role do you think mentorship plays in a player’s success?
