Former Sydney University hooker Folau Fainga’a has signed up for another two years in the nation’s capital, as he looks to cement a starting spot with the Brumbies.

The 22-year-old only joined the squad in pre-season after impressing with the Students in the Shute Shield, and with the Sydney Stars and NSW Country Eagles in the NRC. His form for the Canberra Vikings in that competition last year marked him out as one to watch in 2018, and he impressed enough to earn his first start in the 24-17 loss to the Waratahs in Canberra last weekend.

“We are delighted that Folau has signed a two-year contract with the club,” said Brumbies head coach Dan McKellar after the announcement.

“He brings great energy, is very dynamic in both attack and defence, and his set piece game is developing nicely. Folau was a standout player in the NRC with the Vikings last season and he has produced that form in his first few games of Super Rugby on the back of an excellent pre-season.
 
“Folau has impressed in his short time at the club, he has quickly become a popular member of the group and it is pleasing to see him take the opportunities he has been given. If he continues to work hard on all areas of his game I am confident he has a long career ahead of him at Super Rugby Level.”

For the ambitious former Australian U20 representative, the new contract offers the opportunity to embed himself as a Super Rugby player, and hopefully push his case for further honours.

“I am very happy to have committed myself to the Brumbies and am looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead,” Fainga’a said.

“It’s been tremendous so far and I have really enjoyed my time with the Brumbies since coming to the club in pre-season. It’s a fantastic group of players and staff to work with and in Robbie Abel and Josh Mann-Rea we have two experienced hookers who I can learn from.
 
“The Brumbies is a special club to play for and I have been made to feel so welcome to Canberra by everyone involved and, in particular, the loyal Brumbies supporters. I look forward to an exciting future.”