The Dolphins will carry more than just a game onto the field this weekend, preparing to honour the ANZAC spirit in a powerful Round clash across the Tasman.
As the side heads to New Zealand, forward Felise Kaufusi says the occasion is one that resonates deeply within the playing group both on and off the field.
“It’s going to be pretty special,” Kaufusi said.
“I’ve been part of plenty of good ANZAC matches… it’s a little bit that we can pay homage and leave it all out there on the field.”
The Dolphins will don their ANZAC Round jersey as part of the tribute, recognising the sacrifices of service men and women from both Australia and New Zealand a moment that extends far beyond the game itself.
With strong cultural ties across the squad, Kaufusi highlighted how personal the round can be for many players.
“There’s ties of Kiwi-born and Australian boys here that have some family… that were a part of that war,” he said.
“It’s good to remember those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for us”
While the significance of the jersey and the round is front of mind, the Dolphins are equally focused on delivering a performance worthy of the occasion.
After showing resilience in the second half last week, Kaufusi believes the side is building towards a complete performance.
“If we can start like that, we’ll give ourselves as good an opportunity as anyone to get the two points,” he said.
With the physical toll of recent conditions behind them and a renewed focus heading into the clash, the Dolphins will be looking to rise to the moment.
And on a stage as meaningful as ANZAC Round, Kaufusi made it clear what matters most.
“We’re trying to put a performance on that we’re proud of.”
