I’ve played through pain before. You get knocks, bumps, even strains—part of the job. But this time, it was different. Late in the second half, I went in for what felt like a routine tackle. The next thing I knew, I couldn’t put weight on my leg.
At first, I tried to shake it off. I told the trainer I was fine. But by the time I got to the sheds, my ankle had ballooned. The docs confirmed it: syndesmosis. I’d need up to eight weeks off. Just like that—season likely over.
It’s hard watching the boys go out there knowing I can’t help. But I’ll do the rehab, stay close to the squad, and come back better. That’s the only way I know how to handle this.
— As told by Kitione Kautoga
