From netball star to Matatū: Fia Laikong speaks on leap of faith

Fia Laikong’s journey from the netball courts of Sāmoa to the rugby fields of Matatū is a story of faith, family, and fearless ambition.

The South Island-raised, now based in Wellington, first made her mark in netball, playing for Sāmoa’s national team, Tifa Moana.

She represented the country at the 2023 PacificAus Sports Netball Series on the Gold Coast before making the bold switch to rugby.

“I had done everything I wanted in that space and switching codes was an opportunity where God was making room for me.”

Her tansition to rugby was swift. Named in the Matatū squad for the 2025 season, she quickly became a standout outside back.

Laikong starred during the 2025 Super Rugby Aupiki Grand Final against the Blues at Auckland’s Eden Park, even though Matatū lost 26-19.

Speaking with Tuilagi William Leolahi on Pacific Huddle, Laikong reflected on the defeat:“Because faith was a driver for me, it was hard to do at that moment, but I was like ‘thank you god that I get to play this game.

“Thank you god that I got to run out there,” Laikong says. “There’s a saying that [goes] ‘when you get knocked down you got to get back up again’. What a blessing to wake up another day to go again.”

Laikong says faith has been a constant anchor throughout her career. Before fully committing to rugby, she prayed for guidance and believed her transition was part of God’s plan.

“That came from knowing God's will for me was greater than my own. Before I completely transitioned I prayed a specific prayer of direction in this area of my life at the start of the year and right through until it came to the time to make the decision.”

Laikong also credits her family as her driving force. She reflects on the "sacrifices, time and unseen struggles" her parents endured to support her sporting ambitions.

“They would still go above and beyond for me to train, drive to events and all that comes year after year. Early mornings, late nights, investing in me… but that pushed me to make it.”

Listen to Fia Laikong’s full interview below.

Her first rugby jersey brought a mix of nerves and excitement. She says she was “a bit scared”, but there was also the freedom of being on the field and doing something new.

Beyond the field, Lakong has pursued education and professional development. She attended the University of Canterbury and completed a communications internship with the Crusaders in 2023.

For Laikong, the journey is far from over. Her faith, family, and fierce determination continue to fuel her as she looks ahead in professional rugby.

The 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki season is set to kick off on 13 June 2026. To follow the full schedule and catch up on match updates, visit the official Super Rugby website.