Fainifo, Francis

Francis Fainifo (pron: fay-nee-foe) is respected as one of the quickest men in the Investec Bank Super 14. The hot-stepping outside back enhanced his reputation as one of the competition’s speed merchants by running down recognised express winger Bryan Habana at Canberra Stadium before lighting up the Suncorp Stadium surface and turning Wallaby winger Peter Hynes inside out on his way to the try line during his side’s 52-13 win over the Reds a fortnight later. Fainifo’s career has been highlighted by perennial try scoring, including heading the try-scorer’s list in the 2005 Australian Rugby Shield, the 2006 Australian Provincial Championship and the 2007 Australian Rugby Championship. The Auckland-born, Sydney-raised pace man has begun to realise that potential at the Investec Bank Super 14 level, scoring tries in his final three appearances for 2009. In an age of early talent identification programs, Fainifo is one out of the box. After growing up playing rugby league in Sydney’s Western Suburbs, the 26-year-old’s rugby ascent began when he was spotted playing for NSW Country and University of New England’s Robb College in the Armidale club rugby competition five years ago. Despite his relatively late introduction, Fainifo has developed into a regular member of the CA Brumbies with his performances highlighted by his exhilarating pace, a step that has perplexed many opposition lines and punishing front-on defence. Now into his fourth year as part of the CA Brumbies’ squad, Fainifo, a supremely strong athlete, will again be looking to cement his place within the starting backline.

Career Timeline
2001 – Graduates from Eaglevale High School; contracted to Western Suburbs (now Wests Tigers) Jersey Flegg side.
2005 – Represents NSW Country Cockatoos, who finish third in the Australian Rugby Shield (ARS); finishes as the ARS’s highest try scorer with six tries from five matches; recruited to the Brumbies Academy.
2006 – Stars for the CA Brumbies during Australian Provincial Championship, scoring three tries from four matches; selected and scores a try for the Prime Minister’s XV that defeats Japan, 61-19.
2007 – Signed to rookie contract with the CA Brumbies; makes his Investec Super 14 debut against the Bulls; becomes the competition’s leading try scorer (six tries) for the Canberra Vikings during the Mazda Australian Rugby Championship; plays one match for Australia A against Japan during Pacific Nations Cup.
2008 – Plays every match for CA Brumbies; scores first Investec Super 14 try as part of a double against the Force;
2009 – Plays 11 matches for the CA Brumbies, scoring three tries; plays in second consecutive Shute Shield grand final loss for Randwick; starts all four matches for the CA Brumbies on their French Tour.