SAD NEWS : New Zealand warriors Captain Tohu Harris have just been confirmed dead in a car crash…
The Warriors have been dealt a blow ahead of the new season, with captain Tohu Harris announcing his immediate retirement from the game.
The 234-game veteran played just 14 games last season due to a persistent wrist injury which required surgery and ended his year.
The problem did not heal properly and has forced the 32-year-old into retirement.
had high hopes of returning from the injury this year but I’m devastated I won’t get the chance to pull on the jersey again,” said Harris.
“I’m dealing with pain in everyday life as well as footy. My body has been feeling good in training but the reality is I can’t perform as a player with this injury.
While it’s not easy finishing like this, I’m so grateful to the New Zealand Warriors for the opportunities they’ve given me, for the chance to wear the jersey and to lead our great club, and also for the support we’ve had as a family.”
The Warriors will have to make up for the loss of experience, with Shaun Johnson also hanging up the boots at the end of 2024.
Kiwi Test skipper James Fisher-Harris will be forced to shoulder much of the load upon his arrival after winning a fourth premiership with Penrith in 2023.
“It’s shattering for Tohu and his family as well as for our club and fans,” said Warriors CEO Cameron George.
“We all feel for him having to end his career this way but it will never take away from the exceptional contribution he has made to the club in every way through his deeds on the field and off it.
I’m indebted to him for the amazing work he did to rebuild the team during the tough times when we were isolated in Australia for three seasons.
“We’ll certainly miss the qualities he has provided with his leadership and playing ability and wish him, Nat and Harlan all the best for what lies ahead.”
Warriors coach Andrew Webster added: “It’s a sad way for Tohu to go out but I just want to celebrate him.
“You really don’t know how good a player is until you’ve coached him. I’d admired Tohu from afar throughout his career but when I returned to the club I got to admire him even more every day.
“I’m so grateful to have built a relationship with him and for the way he helped me so much in my transition as a head coach.”
Harris started his career with the Melbourne Storm, making his debut in 2013 before moving to New Zealand, after a break out performance in the 2017 decider.
Ironically the injury means he finishes with 117 games for both clubs.
The Warriors confirmed they will announce their 2025 captain closer to the start of the season
