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Former Canterbury Bulldogs<\/a> playmaker Karl Oloapu<\/a> has made his triumphant return to the rugby league field after over 750 days on the sidelines due to a serious neck injury.<\/p>\n Released by the Bulldogs at the start of 2025, Oloapu returned to action on the weekend for the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Brisbane Rugby League<\/a> <\/a>(BRL) A-Grade premiership competition alongside former NRL<\/a> duo Caleb Jackson<\/a> and Dunamis Lui<\/a>.<\/p>\n Playing in a white headgear and donning the No.14 jersey, his comeback marked the first time he had graced the rugby league field since June 18, 2023, when he faced the Cronulla Sharks<\/a> in the NRL<\/a> whilst still with the Bulldogs.<\/p>\n Rated as one of the best young halves throughout his junior years, Oloapu signed with the Brisbane Broncos<\/a> at the age of 13 before switching to Belmore on a big-money transfer move.<\/p>\n However, his time at the Bulldogs came to a close after he suffered a neck injury and underwent career-threatening spinal surgery, which saw him sidelined for the entire 2024 NRL<\/a> season.<\/p>\n “This has been a challenging period for Karl and his family,” <\/a>Bulldogs GM of Football Phil Gould said in a statement on Oloapu’s release in February this year.<\/a><\/p>\n “He’s shown tremendous courage throughout this process, and we’ve worked closely with him to provide all possible support.<\/p>\n “While we’re disappointed things haven’t worked out as hoped, Karl’s long-term welfare, along with his playing future, have always been our primary concern.<\/p>\n “We thank him for his contribution to the Club and wish him all the best for the future.”<\/p>\n
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