The Gold Coast Titans have thrown their support behind a promising young star after he suffered a serious neck injury in a pre-season trial game in Burleigh at the weekend.
Joseph Pouniu is understood to have collided with goalposts while trying to make a tackle during the Future Titans v Brisbane Broncos under-17 game on Saturday.
The Under 17s captain was rushed to hospital in Brisbane, where he remains in a serious but stable condition.
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said the club is supporting Pouniu and his family, admitting the situation is “devastating for a player in the early stages of a young career”.
“Joseph is a terrific young man and leader and is a big part of our Future Titans program,” Mitchell said.
“The club and the wider rugby league community will support Joseph and his family through this time.
“We will also make sure the rest of our Future Titans playing squad have the support they need.
“In respect to Joseph and his family, given the road that’s ahead for them, we offer our ongoing support and respect their privacy at this time.”
