Matai Makes His Mark On Queensland Stage

Matai Talui has enjoyed an impressive year in sport, earning representative honours in both rugby league and touch football. Photo supplied by Marie Tauli

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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At just 12 years old, Cassowary Coast’s Matai Talui has already racked up a list of sporting achievements, earning him both local and statewide recognition.

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Over the past couple of years, Matai has secured positions on several representative rugby league and touch football teams, representing both the Cassowary Coast and Queensland on multiple occasions.  

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Just recently, Matai returned home from representing Queensland in the Under 12 rugby league team at the National School Sport Championships in Ballina and has once again been selected for the Queensland Under 12 touch football team, which will compete at the National School Sport Championships in Newcastle in October 2026.

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After previously competing with the Under 12 Queensland team at the national championships in Ballarat, the latest selection marks Matai’s second time representing Queensland in touch football; an achievement he is extremely proud of.

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“It makes me proud to know that I work hard for opportunities like this, and I am proud to represent my state,” Matai said.

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“Making Queensland the first time made me want to keep playing at that high level. It motivates me to keep improving my skills and working hard.

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“From my experience, everyone at that high level is fitter, faster and stronger, and they are the best in their position in the state, which allows me to focus on my position,” he said.

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“Playing against some of the best in the country makes me realise that I have to put in the work to keep competing at that high level.”

With one Queensland touch football campaign already under his belt, Matai said he will head into this year’s championships with greater confidence and hopes to take on more of a leadership role within the team.

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“When I made Queensland touch football last year I was excited, proud and nervous; this year I am still very excited and proud, but not as nervous,” he said.

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“I would like to show more leadership this year to all the new Queensland touch football players.”

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Matai’s latest Queensland selection caps off an impressive year across both codes, with the Year 7 student earning representative honours at school, district, regional and state level throughout 2026.

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“In my sporting future, I would like to keep making high-level teams for as long as I can.”