Melbourne Storm officials have provided a significant update regarding injured forward Eli Katoa’s rehabilitation journey after the player was observed participating in limited training activities this week. The club’s director of football, Frank Ponissi, has tempered expectations despite encouraging social media footage showing Katoa engaging in ball work, running exercises, and stationary cycling.
Katoa’s medical situation stems from a traumatic incident during Tonga’s Test match against New Zealand in November 2025, where the elite edge forward sustained three separate head impacts within a devastating 90-minute window. The severity of his injuries culminated in seizure activity on the bench, necessitating emergency neurosurgery to alleviate intracranial pressure followed by a two-week hospitalization in Auckland.
The Storm organization had previously announced on November 18, 2025, that Katoa would be unavailable for the entire 2026 season due to the nature of his injuries. While his recent appearance at training has generated optimism among supporters, club management emphasizes that his rehabilitation remains in early stages with numerous medical milestones yet to be achieved.
Ponissi highlighted the psychological benefits of Katoa’s gradual reintegration into team environments, noting that being around teammates has significantly improved the player’s mental wellbeing following what he described as ‘some dark days’ during recovery. The club has implemented a strictly regulated training regimen specifically tailored to Katoa’s current capabilities, prioritizing long-term health outcomes over competitive timelines.
Medical professionals maintain their original assessment regarding competitive readiness, but the organization remains committed to supporting Katoa’s holistic recovery through controlled involvement with team activities. This approach balances physical rehabilitation with crucial psychological support mechanisms during what Ponissi characterized as ‘a long, long journey’ ahead for the celebrated Dally M Second-Rower of the Year.