The NRL has revealed the findings of their investigation into the circumstances which led to Eliesa Katoa’s hospitilisation, handing down four breach notices to Tongan XIII officials.
Katoa suffered three head knocks in the lead-up and during Tonga’s Pacific Championships clash with New Zealand on November 2 which led to an emergency brain surgery after he suffered a seizure on the sideline.
The Storm subsequently ruled him out of the 2026 season after he returned from Auckland to Melbourne, with the NRL releasing a statement regarding the situation on Monday.
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“The NRL is continuing to support Mr Katoa and his family during his important recovery,” the statement read.
“The investigation has identified a number of serious concerns regarding possible breaches of the NRL Rules and protocols by a number of individuals in the way that Mr Katoa was treated.
“These concerns relate to a possible breakdown in communication between responsible medical and health professionals in relation to the safety of Mr Katoa, including through a failure to share and disclose information that was vital to the health of the player.
“The NRL Rules and protocols exist to protect player safety and wellbeing and must be followed.”
Tonga XIII’s head doctor, assistant doctor and orange shirt trainer (head trainer) all received a breach notice with their proposed penalties being 24 month bans from any involvement with ARLC or NRL-related competitions.
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Meanwhile, the yellow shirt trainer (medical assistant) was “issued a formal warning”.
“All individuals will also be required to undergo further training on their responsibilities under the NRL Rules and the NRL’s policy for the management of possible head injuries and concussion,” the statement said.
All four members of Tonga’s medical staff will have a chance to respond to the breach notice.
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