Tonga’s Katoa Returns to Training After Life-Threatening Injury Raises Concerns About Rugby League Protocols

Melbourne, Australia – Eliesa Katoa, the Melbourne Storm second-rower, has resumed light training, marking a significant step in his recovery from a severe brain injury sustained during a Pacific Championship match last November. The incident, which involved a collision with teammate Lehi Hopoate during a warm-up drill, has sparked a wider conversation about player safety and medical protocols within the sport of rugby league.

The injury occurred during Tonga’s match against New Zealand, when Katoa suffered a concussion after colliding with Hopoate while contesting a high ball. Medical staff initially cleared him to continue playing, but he sustained two further head impacts during the game, ultimately leading to his removal and emergency brain surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. He spent an extended period in hospital.

“I had mixed emotions because I was at fault for what happened to Eli with his first concussion,” Hopoate told The Sydney Morning Herald. “We were both going for the high ball, we didn’t see each other and then clashed.”

The incident prompted an investigation by the National Rugby League (NRL), resulting in proposed two-year bans for two doctors and a trainer who allowed Katoa to return to play after the initial head injury. The NRL’s swift action underscores the growing awareness of the long-term risks associated with repeated concussions in contact sports.

Globally, sports-related concussions are a growing public health concern. According to the World Health Organization, traumatic brain injuries contribute to a significant proportion of disability-adjusted life years lost, and repeated concussions can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease.

Despite the ordeal, Katoa was recognized for his talent, being named second-rower of the year at the 2025 Dally M awards before his condition fully stabilized. His return to training has been met with encouragement from teammates and fans alike.

“Eli has been around training with us and it’s been a motivation for us,” said Ativalu Lisati, a versatile forward for the Storm. “He’s been going through it tough, so to see him on the field is a motivation for us boys to do a job for him this year.”

Hopoate, who faced online abuse following the match, has maintained contact with Katoa, sending gifts and checking on his progress. His father, John Hopoate, a former Manly player, emphasized the emotional toll the incident has taken on his son.

“Lehi is hurting, 100 per cent, he is feeling for Eli,” John Hopoate said. He also pointed out that television footage didn’t capture the full context of the collision, with both players legitimately attempting to win possession of the ball.

Katoa is expected to miss the entire 2026 season as he continues his rehabilitation. His story serves as a stark reminder of the physical risks inherent in rugby league and the critical importance of prioritizing player safety. The NRL’s investigation and subsequent disciplinary actions signal a commitment to improving medical protocols and protecting athletes from the potentially devastating consequences of head injuries.

Katoa recently shared updates on his recovery via Instagram, posting pictures of himself training with the Storm. https://www.instagram.com/eliesa_katoa/

The incident has reignited debate about the role of independent medical professionals in making return-to-play decisions and the need for more stringent concussion protocols across all levels of the sport. The focus now shifts to ensuring that Katoa receives the support he needs to make a full recovery and that lessons are learned to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.