Joel Lam is from Christchurch and attended St Andrew’s College. He joined the Crusaders Academy out of school and made a sole appearance for the Crusaders in 2023, off the bench. Lam also worked part-time as a teacher aide at Te Maire St Francis of Assisi Catholic School.

In 2025, Lam made the switch to rugby league and played for the Hornby Panthers before joining Brisbane club Souths Logan Magpies. He returned to rugby union in June when he was named to play in Manu Samoa’s squad for the Pacific Nations Cup. Lam made his international debut against Tonga in Nuku’alofa, proudly representing his late grandfather who was born in Samoa.

Lam didn’t have a contract with a club in 2025, but joined Moana Pasifika as replacement player for 2026. He made his debut at halfback for Moana Pasifika in Round 4 against the Chiefs and impressed. He was Moana Pasifika’s fans’ man of the match after Round 5 against the Blues and in Round 6 against the Crusaders. He scored his first Super Rugby try in the Crusaders match.