Dragons to axe new recruit Ronald Volkman after shock medical reveal

Professional sport is a brutal place as one of the Dragons’ new recruits is set to be sacked a week after joining the club.

Ronald Volkman's time at the Dragons has already come to an end.

The Dragons are reportedly set to cut new recruit Ronald Volkman from the squad after a routine medical exam revealed he needs season-ending shoulder surgery.

Volkman’s one-year deal with the Dragons was announced just over a week ago, however according to News Corp his contract hadn’t been officially registered with the NRL yet.

It’s believed it won’t be at all given the injury revelation.

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It’s a crushing blow for the 21-year-old given he secured an early release from the two years remaining on his contract to sign with the Dragons.

He relocated from New Zealand to begin training with the Dragons in Wollongong this week and was spotted in a yellow bib — which signals contact-free training.

Volkman debuted for the Warriors in 2023. Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Volkman, who played five matches for the Warriors in 2023, secured a release from the final two years of the deal to link with St George Illawarra.

Volkman’s next move is unclear.

The situation appears to be similar to Bulldogs recruit Siosiua Taukeiaho, whose two year deal was torn up after he failed a medical.

He was signed as cover for halves Ben Hunt and Kyle Flanagan following the decision to deregister Talatau Amone’s contract after he was found guilty of a hammer attack.

However, it now leaves the Dragons’ halves stocks particularly low after the joint venture released Jayden Sullivan, who subsequently joined the Tigers.

Originally published as Dragons to axe new recruit Ronald Volkman after shock medical reveal