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The Storm forward Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, after returning from a extended period in New Zealand after undergoing brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts in a single afternoon while representing Tonga in a international match against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to relieve bleeding on the brain left the player hospitalized and initially unable to travel back to Melbourne.

The team revealed this week that Katoa has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also made a brief visit to a Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery remain our top concern,” stated the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski added that the athlete is making daily progress and is eager to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

However, the CEO stated that there is no timeframe for his return to health or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our medical team and neurology experts, Eli won't be back to practice during the preseason and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “There is a long road ahead ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness before considering any form of return to training.”

Rodski finished by saying that Eli is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his recovery.

League Investigation

The NRL is wrapping up its investigation into the events that resulted in Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the competition’s team of the year at the annual awards ceremony, seemed to sustain a concussion during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

However, he was cleared to participate in the match and endured two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the second half.

His state worsened rapidly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around concussions in the sport in recent years, introducing stricter enforcement on high tackles and lengthening the post-concussion stand down period for affected players.