A lot has changed since Alysia Lefau-Fakaosilea's last appearance in Super Rugby W. Players, teams, even the name of the comp.
The Sevens star has spent close to six years out of the Queensland Reds but will make her return off the bench on Saturday against the Fijiana Drua at Ballymore.
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The 25-year-old comes back to where it all began as a hard-hitting teenager, impressing in her debut season in the 15-a-side game enough to earn a Wallaroos debut and Rookie of the Year honours in 2019.
Lefau-Fakaosilea would make the move to the shortened format and clean up the competition, helping Australia to an historic Triple Crown (World Series, Commonwealth Games, Rugby Sevens World Cup) in 2022.
With another SVNS World Championship under her belt, the centre/winger is relishing the chance to go back to her roots.
“It’s good to be back home,” Lefau-Fakaosilea said on Thursday. “I’ve been away from the game for a bit...Sevens is fast and I’m really excited to bring that [knowledge] and learn from the girls.
“I love having the maroon jersey on and playing for the state. I love playing in front of my family and cannot wait to play in front of a home crowd as well. It’s been a while since [I’ve] played in Brisbane, so it’ll be pretty cool to play in front of my family.”
Her return is timely, following the announcement that outgoing coach Tim Walsh is the new Women's Head of High Performance.
Lefau-Fakaosilea is joined in Super Rugby W by Sevens teammates Piper Simons and Tia Hinds, reflecting the greater alignment between the two formats.
“There are a few girls making the transition into XVs, the feedback we’ve got back is that they love the environment and bringing the stuff they learned from XVs, and to sevens,” Lefau-Fakaosilea adds.
"...He [Walsh] can see the potential in all of us. I’ve obviously been coached by him for a couple of years now, he’s got so much passion for women in sports. I think that will be pretty good for us and the growth of the game.”
Andrew Fraser, Reds head coach, was delighted to have her quality coming back at a crucial time, with the side winless in 2026.
“Alysia has made a wonderful comeback this year,” he said. “We saw how diligent she was with her final rehab when we shared the gym at Ballymore with her.
“The plan has always been for her to become available for us. She is now and that’s great news."
