Francis Molo, a seasoned NRL front-rower, recently transitioned from St George Illawarra Dragons to the Dolphins, a move influenced by personal motivations and professional relationships rather than financial incentives. His departure from the Dragons followed a two-month period marked by a leave of absence and contractual negotiations.
mBackground and Departure from the Dragon
In early 2025, Molo took a leave of absence from the Dragons after a disagreement stemming from a coach’s comment. This absence led to a contractual impasse, with Molo seeking an immediate release from his obligations. The Dragons, initially hesitant, eventually agreed to the release under the condition that Molo repay a significant portion of his salary, a sum reported to be in the six-figure range.
Move to the Dolphins
Molo’s decision to join the Dolphins was driven by his established rapport with the coaching staff, particularly Kristian Woolf, who had previously coached him during his tenure with the Brisbane Broncos and the Townsville Blackhawks. Molo’s manager, Wayde Rushton, emphasized that the move was “not about money” but about finding an environment where Molo could thrive both personally and professionally.
The Dolphins, recognizing Molo’s experience and capabilities, welcomed him as a valuable addition to their forward pack, especially in light of recent retirements and injuries among their players. Head coach Kristian Woolf expressed confidence in Molo’s ability to bring power and impact to the squad.
Conclusion
Francis Molo’s shift from the Dragons to the Dolphins underscores the significance of personal relationships and professional environments in an athlete’s career decisions. While financial considerations often play a role in such moves, Molo’s case highlights the priority of aligning with a team and coaching staff that support both personal well-being and professional growth.
