Te Maire Martin’s inspiring comeback fuels hope for Eliesa Katoa’s brain injury recovery
Former NRL player Te Maire Martin has successfully returned to football after recovering from a brain bleed. Now, he's ready to support Eliesa Katoa, who's currently in hospital following a brain bleed sustained during a Pacific Championships match.
Martin's journey back to the sport began in 2021, two years after retiring due to a brain bleed. He regained his Kiwi jersey this month and helped New Zealand win the Pacific Cup. Martin believes Katoa's path to recovery could be smoother, as the cause of his brain bleed is known.
Katoa, a Tongan international, suffered a brain bleed and seizure activity after taking three heavy knocks in a single match against New Zealand on November 10, 2025. He was moved out of intensive care four days post-surgery. The NRL is investigating whether proper head injury assessment protocols were followed. Martin, though not having reached out to Katoa, is ready to offer advice if asked.
The NRL is set to announce their findings on whether Katoa should have been allowed to play after a heavy knock in the warm-up. Katoa is expected to be released from hospital in the coming days. Martin, who made a successful comeback from a brain bleed, is willing to assist Katoa in his recovery.
