Bulldogs suddenly release playmaker after $500k saga
Bulldogs boss Phil Gould has released an emotional statement after the club cut ties with a player they’d gone to extraordinary lengths to sign.
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The Canterbury Bulldogs have released playmaker Karl Oloapu from the remainder of his contract effective immediately amid his ongoing neck injury.
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The 20-year-old came to the Bulldogs in 2023 on a four-year deal after falling out with the Broncos over broken contract promises. The Bulldogs were so keen on him they paid the Broncos a $500,000 transfer fee.
Oloapu played seven games in his rookie season in 2023, before a neck injury stalled his promising rugby league career.
It was feared Oloapu would never play again, but after successful surgery he was set to return to the field in 2025.
Earlier this year Olopau was linked with a return to his junior club the Dolphins.
Oloapu had two years remaining on his contract at the Bulldogs.
“The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have today announced a mutual agreement to release Karl Oloapu from the remainder of his contract, effective immediately,” the Bulldogs said in a statement.
“Karl, who made his NRL debut for the Club in 2023, played seven first-grade games in the Blue and White and was an integral member of our Jersey Flegg Cup Premiership winning side that season.
“He has not played since sustaining an injury at the back end of the 2023 season.”
Phil Gould, General Manager of Football, said: “This has been a challenging period for Karl and his family.
“He’s shown tremendous courage throughout this process and we’ve worked closely with him to provide all possible support.
“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.
“We thank him for his contribution to the Club and wish him all the best for the future.”
Originally published as Bulldogs suddenly release playmaker after $500k saga
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