Faythe Manera made her NRLW debut in whirlwind fashion in Round 3, after Chelsea Savill was ruled out in the warm-up with a quad strain.
Initially intended to be the 18th player reserve, Manera was quickly rushed into the side where she played hooker off the interchange bench, as well as making a cameo appearance in the centres.
And after a wild start, the rugby union convert has represented herself well at NRLW level to date, despite being so new to the game.
“I come from rugby union,” Manera said.
“I played a bit of rugby sevens, which I went full-time with the Australian program in 2023. I’m 22 and I come from a touch football background as well.
“I made the transition to rugby when I was about 13 and then just did Rugby Sevens, and recently started playing for the Reds XV's side. I grew up on the Gold Coast, near the beaches, and I’ve always loved sports.”
Manera says the opportunity to join Wests Tigers was one she couldn’t turn down.
“I was always really interested in rugby league and wanting to have a crack, so when the opportunity came from the Wests Tigers it was a bit of a no-brainer to give it a shot.”
The playmaker believes her skillset has translated well to the league format.
“From being a ball player, I think my attributes in rugby league are just being that director, just that leader. Team-first mentality and willing to work really hard.”
Also known for her vision and defensive commitment, Manera is determined to keep improving her game.
“My strengths as a player are just that eyes-up footy and being able to put people in spaces, and just being really reliable.
“I really pride myself on my defence and not wanting to let anyone get around me.”
As for her motivation, family is at the heart of everything.
“It’s definitely to make my family proud,” she said.
“My family really love rugby, they love rugby league, so I just want to go out there and make my family proud and put my best foot forward for them and for myself.”
