The Mole: Former teen sensation quits Bulldogs to join rival after devastating injury
Teenage sensation Karl Oloapu has recovered from a career-threatening neck injury and is set to quit the Canterbury Bulldogs to join the Dolphins.
For the 19-year-old pivot, it will be an emotional return to his home town after a turbulent past couple of years.
Oloapu was signed by the Broncos as a 13-year-old from Redcliffe and went on to captain the Australian Schoolboys in 2022.
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But the following year he had a massive fallout with the Broncos, declaring "I will never play for Brisbane as long as I live" and requesting a release.
Karl Oloapu pictured in action for the Canterbury Bulldogs during the 2023 NRL season. NRL Imagery
After a stalemate for several weeks that saw the Players Association step in to mediate, he was granted the release and signed with the Bulldogs, making his NRL debut in 2023 and playing seven games.
Oloapu looked a player of promise but tragedy struck at the end of the season when he suffered a bulging disc in his neck.
There were fears his playing days were over but he underwent delicate surgery and after a long and slow recovery, is confident he can resume playing again after sitting out the entire 2024 season.
The Dolphins showed interest in the youngster and the two are set to come to terms on a long-term deal in coming days.
Oloapu has already moved back to Redcliffe and will start training with his new club this week.
