'Feeling grateful': Oloapu heads north on road to recovery

Karl Oloapu faces a long road to recovery after a career-threatening neck injury, but on a trip with the NRL Road to Regions, the 19-year-old was reminded that with the right attitude, anything is possible.

Discovering a bulging disc in his neck during the 2024 pre-season, Oloapu’s promising career slipped straight out from underneath him when he was told he may never play rugby league again, just months after making his NRL debut.

But after successful surgery, the Bulldogs young star is back up and running for the first time in four months and remaining positive, after a timely reminder that attitude and positivity is everything.

“I can’t train at the moment so I’ve been doing a bit of community work in my spare time,” Oloapu told NRL.com.

“I went up to Central Queensland for Road to Regions and visited a few schools and shared programs from the NRL about how you can do anything if you have the right attitude and live a healthy life.

“I have never been out that way, so it was good to go to schools across places like Goondiwindi and talk to a few kids.

“It was a good reminder for me to bring the right attitude and don’t give up on your dreams, eat the right foods and spread kindness.”

The Wellington-born playmaker reached a major milestone in March when he returned to running for the first time post-surgery, shrugging off earlier suggestions of medical-retirement.

Contracted with the Bulldogs until 2026, the talented teenager said he is committed to taking one step at a time while he focuses on a return in 2025.

“I had surgery four months ago so I’m just focused on getting back into running and weights at the moment,” he said.

“They had to move my throat to the side in the surgery, put a cage in my neck and they said it took a bit longer because of something to do with my bones.

“But I’ve been back running for a few weeks now. I had my first speed session a couple of weeks ago which was massive for me.

“No change of direction or anything yet, just sprinting down the field but it’s a massive stepping stone for me. I’m feeling really grateful.”

After notching up seven NRL appearances in his rookie season, Oloapu admitted patience has been a challenge throughout his recovery but he is determined to remain positive on his future.

“I’m looking at next season at the moment, I don’t want to rush the surgery too much,” he said.

“I’ve got to be patient, especially with an injury like this, you don’t want to rush it.

“I’m just trying to keep the right attitude and do everything I can to come back in 2025.”