Toby Rudolf, a key player for the Sharks, is no stranger to overcoming challenges on the rugby field. However, he recently faced a unique struggle as he watched his teammates compete in Las Vegas without him due to a shoulder injury. In an action-packed match against the Penrith Panthers, the Sharks narrowly lost, providing an unexpected thrill in the first round of the NRL’s American tour.
Although missing the trip left Rudolf feeling excluded, he noted a peculiar advantage in avoiding the harsh playing conditions reported by his teammates. The players mentioned difficulties due to the dry desert atmosphere, claiming it to be one of the worst environments they’ve played in, with dust impacting the overall game experience.
Reflecting on his absence, Rudolf expressed a mix of emotions, experiencing significant FOMO (fear of missing out) as he watched from home, where he was caring for a friend’s dog. To cope, he distanced himself from the team chat and unfollowed teammates on social media, attempting to lessen the disappointment of not being part of the festive occasion overseas. Despite the challenges, he fondly remembered the camaraderie he shares with his teammates, who have been a pivotal part of his career since their time at Newtown together.
On the recovery front, Rudolf is making progress and is optimistic about returning to the field soon. He initially aimed to be back by round two but now is taking a week-to-week approach to his rehabilitation. With strength levels improving, he’s working diligently with physiotherapists to alleviate lingering pain, hoping to return in time for a match against South Sydney, his former club, which serves as a significant motivation for him.
In summary, whilst missing the excitement of the Las Vegas trip was tough for Rudolf, he remains dedicated to his recovery and looks forward to rejoining his teammates on the field.