David Faiumu appeared in the first grand final in North Queensland Toyota Cowboys history as a player in 2005, he’ll now be attempting to guide the Cowboys to premiership glory as a coach.
Faiumu, Cowboys NRL player No.162, has joined Ricky Henry’s NRLW staff as an assistant coach for the 2024 season.
The 40-year-old appeared in 76 NRL games for the Cowboys between 2004-2008 before relocating to England where he compiled a glittering 162-game stint with Huddersfield in the UK Super League.
Following his playing retirement in 2014, Faiumu moved into a development role with Huddersfield before returning to Australia. He has had a long association with the CQ Capras, who are based in Rockhampton, including three seasons as Queensland Cup Head Coach as well as stints in operational roles within the Capras’ football department.
Faiumu has also spent the previous two years working under Henry as an assistant coach for the Kiwi Ferns, including for their historic 12-6 victory over Australia in last year’s Pacific Championships.
An International in his own right, Faiumu made 10 appearances for the Kiwis, including the 2005 Tri-Nations grand final triumph over Australia.
Aside from his role with the Cowboys, Faiumu will also join the staff at Kirwan State High School, working as a programs coordinator and in youth wellbeing.
Faiumu will be one of two assistant coaches working under Henry, joining Alicia-Kate Hawke.
“It’s fantastic to be able to bring back an ex-Cowboy, who contributed so much to the club as a player, to be part of our NRLW coaching staff,” Head of NRLW and Women’s Elite Pathways Anita Creenaune said.
“David’s experience as a player, coaching resume and importantly, knowledge of our club and what we stand for, made him a clear top candidate to complete our coaching staff.
“All our coaching staff, including David, have made enormous sacrifices, uprooting their lives and in some cases leaving their family behind to be a part of our club and help guide our NRLW players. We believe we have assembled a staff who will give us the best opportunity to perform on the field and also to guide our players in their off-field lives.”
