Dragons Young Gun Loko Pasifiki Tonga Receives Widespread Support After Training Scare
The St George-Illawarra Dragons club and the wider NRL community have expressed their relief and support for emerging star Loko Pasifiki Tonga, following a concerning incident during a training session on Thursday. The 20-year-old forward was stretchered into an ambulance after sustaining what was initially feared to be a serious neck injury.
The alarming scenes unfolded during a routine training drill at the club’s Wollongong facilities. Pasifiki Tonga remained on the ground for a significant period, visibly indicating to teammates and coaching staff that he was experiencing neck pain. Paramedics were immediately called to the scene to provide assessment and care.
The towering middle forward, known for his imposing presence, was carefully placed in a neck brace before being transported to Wollongong Hospital for comprehensive scans and further evaluation. The club issued an initial statement confirming the precautionary measures.
“St George Illawarra Dragons forward Loko Pasifiki Tonga was taken to hospital for precautionary scans following a suspected neck injury sustained at training today,” the club stated. “He was conscious and communicating with medical staff at all times. The club will provide an update on his condition once further information becomes available.”
Positive Update Eases Concerns
Fortunately, later on Thursday, the Dragons confirmed that Loko Pasifiki Tonga had been cleared of any serious injury concerns. This positive news allowed the young prop to return to the club’s training facilities, though he will continue to undergo further assessments to determine his readiness for an imminent return to the field.
“He will be monitored by our medical staff over the coming days before a determination is made on his availability to play this weekend,” the club added in a subsequent statement.
This update comes as Pasifiki Tonga was slated to start in the NSW Cup clash for the Dragons against Parramatta at CommBank Stadium on Sunday. While he has now been cleared of serious injury, his participation in this weekend’s game remains subject to ongoing medical assessment.
A Rising Star’s Journey
Loko Pasifiki Tonga is widely regarded as a significant talent within the Dragons’ system. While he has yet to feature in the NRL for the club this year, he made his debut in 2025 during a Round 10 clash against the Warriors. The 196cm powerhouse is considered a strong contender to cement a regular spot in coach Shane Flanagan’s NRL squad this season, having already made 10 appearances in the top grade last year.
During his NRL debut season, Pasifiki Tonga demonstrated his potential, averaging 74 run metres and close to 17 tackles per game. His journey with the Dragons began in their junior ranks. He joined the club in 2023 and was instrumental in their SG Ball side securing their first premiership in 32 years the following year. His impressive performances also earned him a place in the NSW Under 19s State of Origin team in 2024, before his subsequent progression to the NSW Cup and eventually the NRL.
The outpouring of support from fans and the NRL community underscores the positive impression Pasifiki Tonga has made in a short time. The focus now shifts to his recovery and his eventual return to the field, where he is expected to continue his development as a key player for the St George-Illawarra Dragons.
