Hame Faiva Retires from Rugby at 31
Newcastle Red Bulls hooker Hame Faiva has announced his retirement from professional rugby at the age of 31, bringing an finish to a career spanning multiple leagues and international representation. The New Zealand-born Italy international’s decision comes after a recent injury curtailed his time with the Red Bulls, where he joined last summer. Faiva’s departure marks the end of a decade-long professional journey that saw him play for clubs in New Zealand, Italy, England, and now, briefly, in the north of England.
The announcement, made on March 13, 2026, was met with tributes from the Newcastle Red Bulls organization. Sporting General Manager Neil McIlroy described Faiva as an “outstanding character” with a “fantastic career,” adding that it had been a “pleasure” having him as part of the team. The club’s official statement highlighted the positive impact Faiva had during his short time with the Red Bulls, despite his injury-affected stint.
From New Zealand to International Recognition
Epalahame Faiva was born on May 9, 1994, in Auckland, New Zealand. According to his Wikipedia profile, he attended Wesley College, where he initially explored both rugby union and rugby league before focusing on the former. His early rugby career saw him represent Counties Manukau before moving south to Waikato, where he progressed through their academy system and too played under-20 rugby.
Faiva’s senior debut for Waikato came in July 2013, in a Ranfurly Shield defense against Horowhenua-Kapiti. He quickly established himself as a key player for the Mooloos, playing 36 times and scoring 35 points over four seasons (2013-2017). His performances earned him a contract with the Blues in 2017, where he made six appearances.
A Significant Period in Italy
A pivotal moment in Faiva’s career came with his move to Benetton in 2017. He spent five seasons with the Italian club, becoming a prominent figure in their squad and amassing 62 appearances with 115 points. It was during his time with Benetton that Faiva qualified for and began representing Italy on the international stage. He earned his first cap for Italy A in 2021 and subsequently went on to represent the Azzurri in 10 test matches, scoring 10 points. His international career included appearances in the Six Nations and the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Following his departure from Benetton in 2022, Faiva had short spells with Worcester Warriors (3 appearances) and the Hurricanes (5 appearances in 2023) before joining Newcastle Red Bulls. His journey reflects a versatile player who adapted to different leagues and national teams, showcasing his dedication and skill.
Injury Cuts Short Promising Career
Faiva’s time at Newcastle was unfortunately limited by injury. He managed only three appearances for the Red Bulls, with his last match being a Premiership Rugby Cup game in November. The BBC reported that the injury ultimately led to his decision to retire. While the specific nature of the injury hasn’t been publicly disclosed, it was severe enough to end his playing career prematurely.
Despite the short duration of his time with Newcastle, Faiva clearly made a positive impression. The club’s statement emphasized the welcoming atmosphere he experienced and his appreciation for the fans. He expressed his fondness for Newcastle as a city, noting its quieter lifestyle and the gratitude he felt for the time spent there with his family.
A Career Defined by Versatility and Dedication
Hame Faiva’s career is a testament to his adaptability and commitment to the sport. From his roots in New Zealand to his international appearances for Italy, he consistently demonstrated his abilities as a hooker. His journey through various clubs – Waikato, the Blues, Benetton, Worcester Warriors, the Hurricanes, Bath, and Newcastle Red Bulls – highlights his willingness to embrace new challenges and contribute to different teams. He played 5 games for Bath in 2023-2025 before moving to Newcastle.
While his retirement comes earlier than many athletes hope for, Faiva leaves behind a legacy of hard work, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game. His contributions to both club and country will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. He leaves the game having played 134 senior club games and 10 international caps for Italy.
The rugby world has lost a talented player, but Hame Faiva’s impact on the sport will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. His retirement serves as a reminder of the physical demands of professional rugby and the sacrifices athletes create to pursue their passion.
The next step for Faiva remains to be seen, but he has expressed gratitude for the opportunities he has been given and looks forward to the future. Fans can follow updates on his post-playing career through his social media channels and the official websites of the clubs he represented.
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