Fijivillage
NEWS SPORTS IN DEPTH
5 April, 2026, 7:55 pm
Central - 24°C Rain
5 April, 2026, 7:55 pm Central - 24°C Rain

Fiji Bati prop Eloni Vunakece to donate brain to medical science after quitting following concussions

Fiji Bati prop Eloni Vunakece to donate brain to medical science after quitting following concussions

By Lena Reece
26/03/2019
Fiji Bati prop Eloni Vunakece

Fiji Bati prop Eloni Vunakece the last player forced into premature retirement due to repeated concussions, has pledged to donate his brain to science through the Australian Sports Brain Bank.

The former cult figure Roosters forward has encouraged other players to follow his lead and the recently retired Isaac de Gois — another player forced to due to a head knock — is considering doing likewise.

Thankfully, Vunakece and de Gois have transitioned successfully into careers post‑football without any ongoing concussive symptoms.

Vunakece has taken an interest in the subject and happily subjects himself to testing that may help understanding of the issue. Only this week, the Fijian international got in touch with specialists to pledge his brain for research.

[Source: stuff.co]

ADVERTISEMENT

Total - Hong Kong 7s
Fresh Choice - Coming Soon
FNRL
FEATURE NEWS
Tropical Disturbance 11F poses no direct impact on Fiji, heavy rain warning and alert remain
The centre of Tropical Disturbance 11F is currently slow-moving and expected to track south and then southeast, remaining well to the west of the Fiji...
7 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
2 evacuation centres have been opened to assist affected families
After the recent heavy rain being experienced over the weekend, two evacuation centres have been opened to assist affected families by the Fiji ...
1 hour ago

Adi Tulia and Hereniko to appear on fijivillage Straight Talk at 7pm Wednesday
Writer and filmmaker from Ra, Adi Tulia Nacola and Rotuma's first and only playwright, award-winning filmmaker and full professor, Vilsoni Hereniko ...
2 hours ago

Apple marks 50 years of innovation and global impact
Apple is celebrating its 50th anniversary, marking decades of influence in shaping how people use technology in their daily lives. The company’s ...
2 hours ago

Every child needs one adult to trust and believe in them
As Fiji faces increasing challenges with drugs, HIV and non-communicable diseases among young people, every child needs at least one responsible ...
3 hours ago

NDRMO urges early preparedness as TD11F develops north of Fiji
The Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) is advising all Fijians to remain alert and begin early preparedness measures as Tropical ...
3 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH

Fiji Sports Council Saga: Minister ready to repay business class air fare for wife as concerns grow about Sports Council deals
I was invited to travel to New Zealand by the Fiji Sports Council for a grassroots 7s tournament in 2024, I travelled business class but it was ...
30 days ago

TOP