LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Josiah Karapani's journey in rugby has been nothing short of remarkable. As a young athlete, he was a sought-after talent.
At the age of 18, the New Zealand Warriors took notice of him, and he spent a season with their SG Ball team. Following that, he relocated to Australia, sealing a deal with the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the 2021 season.
During his time in the Rabbitohs' development program, Karapani proved his worth, leading to a contract extension that ensured his stay in Redfern until the end of the 2024 season. In 2023, he was elevated to the club's Top 30 roster.
Unfortunately, after the 2023 season, disciplinary issues led to his termination from the Rabbitohs, leaving him without an NRL debut and placing his career in jeopardy.
Reflecting on the turmoil, he expressed, "It got to a point where I just didn't really care anymore. I was just like, 'I think that's it'. I already had a crack at trying to make it to NRL."