Congratulations! Bulldogs Captain Stephen Crichton and Wife Leone Lauafia Welcome Their First Child, Share Emotional Ordeal Before Delivery
In heartwarming news that has touched the rugby league community, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton and his wife Leone Lauafia have welcomed their first child—a healthy baby boy—following a tense and emotional lead-up to the birth.
Crichton, 24, shared the joyful announcement on social media Thursday evening, posting a touching photo of the newborn nestled in his mother’s arms. The caption read, “Welcome to the world, my son. Mum was incredible. God is good.”
The couple, who have been together for several years and tied the knot in 2023, faced a series of complications in the days leading up to the delivery that left them both emotionally drained but stronger than ever. Leone reportedly experienced early signs of distress late last week, prompting an urgent hospital visit and a temporary stay in the maternity ward under close observation.
Sources close to the family revealed that the couple endured “some very anxious moments” as doctors monitored both mother and baby. “It was a rollercoaster. Stephen barely left her side,” a family friend shared. “He was worried, but he stayed strong for Leone.”
The Bulldogs club, where Crichton was recently named captain in his first season after joining from the Penrith Panthers, has extended their congratulations and support. In a statement, the club said, “We’re thrilled for Stephen and Leone on the arrival of their beautiful baby boy. The entire Bulldogs family stands with them during this special moment.”
Crichton’s leadership on and off the field has been widely praised in 2025, and his resilience during the emotional week further cemented his role as a pillar of strength in the Bulldogs community. Despite the ordeal, Crichton insisted on remaining in close contact with club officials and teammates, showing his trademark composure and humility.
Teammates, fans, and figures across the NRL community flooded social media with congratulatory messages. Penrith Panthers, Crichton’s former club where he won multiple premierships, posted, “Sending love and blessings to Crichts and Leone on their new arrival. Once a Panther, always a Panther.”
Leone, a well-known figure in Pacific Islander community initiatives, also shared a heartfelt post on Instagram thanking hospital staff and supporters, writing, “The prayers got us through. This little miracle was worth every tear.”
With both mum and baby now resting and in good health, the Crichton family begins a beautiful new chapter—one marked by love, faith, and triumph over fear.
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