David Fifita reveals sacrifices as Wakefield confirm Super League return

David Fifita says leaving his family in Australia is one of the hardest things he’s had to do as Wakefield confirm the return of the forward in the hopes of reviving their season. 

The 33-year-old becomes Wakefield’s fifth signing of the day in the hopes of turning their winless year so far around.

Mark Applegarth’s side sit at the bottom of the table, four points behind 11th placed Castleford, with Magic Weekend next up against Leigh at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park.

Fifita left the club at the end of last season to return Down Under, and has since been plying his trade for Entrance Tigers in the Central Coast Division.

He first joined Wakefield in 2016 from Cronulla Sharks and went on to make 141 appearances for the club.

Former Catalans winger Romain Franco and prop Hugo Salabio became the first announcement of the day, with the pair joining on a month’s trial.

Huddersfield’s Sam Hewitt returns on loan, while Isaac Shaw has signed a deal until the end of the 2023 season.

David Fifita makes Wakefield return

“It goes without saying that this is one of the hardest things I’ve had to do, leaving my family back in Australia,” Fifita admitted.

“At this time, I want to concentrate on getting myself right and bringing that smile back to Wakefield fans.

“The hard work starts now and I’ll be giving everything for the challenge ahead, which is to try and help a club close to my heart stay in the top tier.”

Head coach Applegarth added: “Everything at the club is delighted that David Fifita is back with us.

“He’s a player that will make a huge difference to the dressing room and it’s been great to have him training with us this morning, with his leadership skills clear to see.

“Dave Fifita, on his day, has an unplayable talent and he’s certainly excited to be with us to help us survive. He has the ability to stress a defence and create some tempo for us to play off, which is something we have been missing for most parts of this year.

“It was clear to see how much Dave also meant to the fans in the final home game of last year, and I know that Dave will be buzzing to play in front of the red, white & blue army once again.”

Shaw returns to Wakefield

Wakefield have also confirmed the return of academy product Shaw on a deal until the end of the current campaign.

He left the club at the end of 2022 and later joined Villeneuve Leopards in the French Elite 1 competition. 

“I’m excited to be back at Wakefield Trinity and enjoyed being out on the training field with the boys this morning,” said Shaw.

“It’s now all about fighting for my position in the squad and getting back on the field again.

“I know it’s going to take some time to adjust but I’ll be ripping in at training and hopefully I can force my way into the team and put my best foot forward.”

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