Khaiya Waiembi grew up in a rugby league family in Papua New Guinea — his father played both rugby union and league, and represented the PNG Pukpuks in union. Growing up around that influence, it was only a matter of time before Khaiya found his own path to the game. He did it memorably: debuting on 16 March 2024 and scoring a try against the PNG Hunters at Browne Park — the last try ever scored at the old ground before it was demolished and rebuilt as Aurizon Stadium. By the end of that first season, he had been named 2024 Rookie of the Year.

That debut moment — scoring in front of a crowd at a stadium that was about to become history — captures something of who Waiembi is. He’s a prop who brings physical presence and the kind of belief that comes from faith. His pre-game routine starts with prayer, a commitment to his King, Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, before breakfast, a morning walk and hydration. His goal for 2026 is to build the habits that make him better every day — disciplined, committed, consistent. He was also selected for the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII and the Pacific Test in late 2024, though a major calf injury prevented him from playing.

Off the field, Khaiya is full of surprises. He can break dance. His post-game recovery consists of three bananas — no exceptions. He’d rather go camping or hunting with the boys than go fishing (he is very clear about the fishing). His family back in PNG means everything to him. And the advice he gives to young players? Look in the mirror and tell yourself you’re the best.

#OnTheField

Position: Prop

Junior Club: Port Moresby Paga Panthers

Capras Debut: 16 March 2024.

What’s your first memory playing rugby league? Playing Under 14s school boys for Kokopo Primary School in East New Britain Province, PNG, back in 2014.

Who introduced you to the game? My family — Dad and his brothers all played footy. Dad represented Papua New Guinea in rugby union, playing for the PNG Pukpuks.

Career Highlight: Beginning my professional career with the Capras, being named 2024 Rookie of the Year, and being selected for the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII and Pacific Test — although a calf injury prevented me from playing.

Pre-Game Ritual/Superstition: Pray and commit my day to the Lord. Breakfast (toast, avocado and eggs), morning walk, hydrate. Light lunch. Game mode on.

Most Memorable Game: Scoring a try against the PNG Hunters on debut at Browne Park — the last try scored before the old ground was demolished and rebuilt as Aurizon Stadium.

What’s Your Personal Goal for the year? Build good habits to become a better person and a better rugby league player — disciplined, committed and consistent.

What’s the biggest lesson footy has taught you? Patience.

What advice would you give to young players starting out in footy? Trust in God and believe in yourself. Look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are the BEST.

 

#OffTheField

If you weren’t a footballer, what would you be? A police officer or in the military.

Childhood Hero: Mum and Dad.

Favourite Game-Day Pump-Up Song: Go Hard or Go Home — E-40; Can’t Be Touched — Roy Jones Jr.

Hobbies: Camping and hunting with the boys — but not fishing.

Favourite Post-Game Meal: Three bananas.

Hidden Talent: Break dancing.

Favourite Sports Team (Outside Rugby League): The Mosquitoes (PNG AFL).

Best Advice You’ve Ever Received: “You only learn from it when you live through it.”

Favourite Holiday Destination: New Zealand.

Dream Team You’d Love to Play For: South Sydney Rabbitohs.

Dream Player You’d Love to Play With: Greg Inglis.

 

#CaprasTop3

Game Day Snacks: Watermelon and fruit.

Movies of All Time: The Equaliser.

Meals: Beef ribs with fries, salad and mushroom sauce.

Sporting Idols: Greg Inglis.

Bucket List Destinations: Egypt.

Things You Can’t Live Without: My family.

Worst Drills at Training: Conditioning drills.

Embarrassing Moments on the Field: None.

 

#TeamTalk

Who is the team pest? Me.

Who is always late to training? Zev John.

Who takes the longest to get ready? Nixon Putt.

Who would you not want to be stuck on a desert island with? Bob Tenza.

Who is the best dressed on the team? Tyler Szep.

Who is the worst dressed on the team? Me.

Who is the biggest joker on the team? Riley Reid.