Kalani Going is a tough, versatile forward who has joined the Penrith Panthers for the 2026 NRL season. He plays across the pack as a second‑rower, lock and hooker, bringing experience, work ethic, and resilience to Penrith’s forward stocks.

Going’s path to the NRL has been far from conventional. He came through the Canberra Raiders system as a junior, featuring in SG Ball, Under‑20s, and NSW Cup with the Mounties before moving to the Queensland Cup with the Tweed Seagulls. Despite early promise, he struggled to crack the NRL and eventually returned home to Northland, balancing farm work with long commutes while keeping his rugby league dream alive.

His persistence paid off when he earned an opportunity with the New Zealand Warriors, breaking into their NSW Cup squad and later making his NRL debut in Round 27 of the 2023 season against the Dolphins. Over the next three seasons (2023–2025), Going became one of the Warriors’ most reliable performers at state level, playing 75 NSW Cup matches and scoring 20 tries, demonstrating consistency, physicality, and strong defence.

In 2025, Going helped steer the Warriors to their first-ever NSW Cup premiership, earning recognition for his leadership and high-level play. His performances saw him named NSW Cup Player of the Year and entrusted with leadership duties heading into the grand final, capping off a remarkable chapter in his career.

Now with Penrith for 2026, Going arrives as a seasoned and battle‑hardened forward, ready to contribute immediately to one of the NRL’s premier systems. His adaptability across multiple forward roles and his proven state‑level success make him a valuable asset as the Panthers continue to evolve their pack for future campaigns.