Faitala Moleka

Calm under pressure and always three steps ahead, Faitala Moleka plays rugby like a chess match at full speed. 

One of the brightest young talents in Australian rugby, the proud Samoan playmaker grew up in Penrith in Sydney’s west as one of eight siblings before beginning her rugby journey with the Blacktown Scorpions at 15. Coming from a background in rugby league and touch football, Moleka quickly developed a sharp instinct for the game, combining vision, skill and composure beyond her years. 

Whether it’s identifying defensive weaknesses, controlling field position or executing in big moments, “Tala” has built a reputation as the mastermind behind a team’s attack. A natural game-driver with confidence and creativity, she continues to shape as one of the future stars of Australian rugby. 

Playing her club rugby with Uni-North Owls, Moleka made her Wallaroos debut in 2023 at just 18 years old against Fijiana at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, becoming Wallaroo number 199. Following an outstanding maiden season in gold, she was awarded the Wallaroos Rookie of the Year award; recognition of both her talent and maturity at such a young age. 

Away from rugby, Tala enjoys making vlogs, playing guitar and singing with friends and family, while music remains one of the topics she could talk about endlessly. Inspired by Siokapesi Palu and her leadership both on and off the field, Moleka hopes to carry herself with the same presence and humility throughout her own career. 

Her ideal recovery day includes a trip to the recovery centre, good food and time to relax, while a dream still sitting high on the bucket list is travelling to South Korea for the K-dramas, K-pop and food culture she loves. 

Heading into the 2026 season, Moleka continues to establish herself as one of the game’s most exciting young playmakers; intelligent, composed and capable of changing a match in an instant.