Brotherhood, Belief and the Underdog Spirit: Ben Faulks Reflects on Daramalan Rugby

For many Old Collegians, rugby at Daramalan is more than just a sport, it is a shared experience that creates lifelong friendships and memories. Ben Faulks, who played at Daramalan from 1993 to 1999, is one such alumnus whose journey through the program left a lasting impact. A member of the First XV in 1998 and 1999, Ben was part of a team that went on to become ASC Champions, a moment that still holds special significance for him today.

Ben remembers his time at Daramalan Rugby as one filled with talented teammates and strong leadership. Among the standout players he lined up alongside were Michael McMahon, whose career was unfortunately limited by injury despite having the talent to play at the highest level, and Brendon Pye, a relentless defender whose work rate and ball skills made him a dominant presence on the field. Another teammate who left a strong impression was Nio Halangahu, who would later represent Tonga and play over 200 first grade games for Randwick. Ben believes Nio was one of the most underrated players in Australian rugby during the 2000s, combining the skills of a flyhalf with the physical presence of a prop.

Behind the scenes, the coaching staff played an important role in shaping the team’s success. In Ben’s final year, the side was coached by Dom Mammolitti, whose passion and investment in the group made a lasting impact. Dom was supported by a dedicated coaching group that included Jack McGrath in the junior years, Steve Pickett, and even Ben’s own mother, who helped coach for a season. Their guidance helped build a culture centred on simplicity, commitment, and teamwork.

One moment that still stands out vividly for Ben came in the final game of the season against St Edmund’s College at Daramalan. With the match on the line, teammate Daniel Callaghan stepped up to take a conversion. The kick sailed through the posts, giving Daramalan an 18–17 victory in dramatic fashion. The celebrations that followed—particularly the team gathering beneath the scoreboard—remain a cherished memory and a photograph from that day still holds pride of place.

While the victories were memorable, Ben believes the greatest legacy of Daramalan Rugby lies in the friendships it creates. Many of his closest friends today are the same teammates he shared the field with during his school years.
“The foundational friendship group for my life are the people I played footy with at Daramalan,” Ben says. “Our punters club alone has about twenty of us.”

The lessons learned through the program have stayed with him long after leaving school. Ben reflects on the values of friendship, camaraderie, and the underdog spirit that defined his team and helped shape his outlook on life.

For current players, Ben has a clear message: commit to the work behind the scenes. His team placed a strong emphasis on fitness, guided by an outstanding strength and conditioning coach who pushed them hard during the off-season. That preparation often proved decisive in tight games.

“We were unbelievably fit,” he recalls. “That opened doors to winning games we might otherwise have lost and gave us belief as a group.”

He also encourages young players to take care of their bodies by seeking professional screening for physical imbalances to help prevent injuries. Staying injury-free, he says, is one of the keys to enjoying a long rugby journey.
Since leaving Daramalan, Ben has built a successful career and family life in Canberra, where he now owns and operates the Ray White businesses. He and his wife Kylie have three children, who keep them busy outside of work. Rugby, however, has remained a central part of his life. After playing representative rugby in the Brumbies pathway program and appearing in a first grade grand final, Ben has recently taken on the role of President at the Gungahlin Eagles Rugby Club, continuing his lifelong connection to the sport.

Looking back, Ben believes Daramalan Rugby offers something truly unique. The pathway from the school program into senior club rugby creates bonds that extend well beyond the playing field.
“Rugby is unique in the warrior mentality it requires us to take into combat,” he says. “Having a group of mates you’re connected to in that way is very special. You don’t fully appreciate it until you get older.”

His advice to current players is simple: embrace the experience.
“Being part of Daramalan Rugby opens up pathways to mateship that will carry you through life. Very few people get to experience something like this, so do your best to enjoy the journey.”

Ben’s story is another reminder that while results and championships are celebrated, the true legacy of Daramalan Rugby lies in the brotherhood, resilience, and lifelong friendships it builds along the way.