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๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia /Sports

Storm enforcer Kamikamica forced into medical retirement after stroke

From ABC Australia · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Outcome reported
  • Tui Kamikamica, a 32-year-old Fijian rugby league player, has been forced into medical retirement after suffering a stroke.
  • Kamikamica had hoped to captain Fiji at the World Cup and play on next year, but medical advice ended his career.
  • He played 142 NRL games, represented Fiji 23 times, and was part of two premiership squads with the Melbourne Storm.

Tui Kamikamica's promising rugby league career has been cut short after he was advised to retire due to a stroke suffered in March.

I'm incredibly proud of everything I've been able to achieve in the game, representing Storm and captaining my country.

โ€” Tui KamikamicaKamikamica reflecting on his career after being forced into medical retirement.

The 32-year-old prop had aspirations of captaining Fiji at the upcoming World Cup and continuing his playing career next year. However, specialist medical advice has now ended his 142-game NRL journey and his hopes of further international representation.

Kamikamica expressed pride in his achievements, including representing the Melbourne Storm and captaining his country. "To play for Storm and captain Fiji are memories I'll cherish forever," he stated. He also acknowledged the significant support from the club, teammates, coaches, and his family throughout his decade-long association with the Storm.

Melbourne Storm has been a huge part of my life for the past 10 years.

โ€” Tui KamikamicaKamikamica expressing his gratitude to the Melbourne Storm club.

Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski lauded Kamikamica's contributions, stating he leaves the club with immense respect. "He has been an outstanding player, teammate and leader, but above all else, Tui is a wonderful person," Rodski said. Kamikamica was recently inducted as a life member of the Storm.

To play for Storm and captain Fiji are memories I'll cherish forever.

โ€” Tui KamikamicaKamikamica on his most cherished career moments.

The club is also navigating the uncertain future of another player, Eliesa Katoa, who is undergoing medical assessments following multiple head knocks. Katoa's situation, like Kamikamica's, highlights the significant physical risks involved in professional rugby.

I want to thank everyone at Storm for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at the highest level.

โ€” Tui KamikamicaKamikamica thanking the Storm for his career opportunities.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.