03/10/2025
It appears increasingly likely that former Canberra player Albert Hopoate will join Warrington for the upcoming season, with some fans expressing skepticism via social media due to his injury record.
To gain a more comprehensive understanding, let's examine the details more closely.
Before making his NRL debut, Hopoate suffered an ACL injury in 2018, followed by another in 2019. Notably, he had previously had attention for his performances with the NSW under-16 team, with many in junior rugby league circles regarding him as a potential star player.
Unfortunately, these significant injuries, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on lower-grade competitions, resulted in him missing three full seasons.
Hopoate ultimately made his NRL debut for Manly in 2020 at the age of 19, participating in the final five games of that season. In 2021, he signed with Canberra, but the COVID-19 pandemic again disrupted the lower grades, limiting him to just nine games in the NSW Cup. This meant that, over the past three years, he had only played 14 games.
The following three seasons saw Hopoate receive more first-team action, playing 36 games and scoring 13 tries. Although this may not seem like a substantial amount, it's essential to remember that he was only 21 at the start of the 2022 season, still relatively young but possessing considerable potential.
Tragically, early in the 2025 season, Hopoate suffered his third ACL injury, a devastating setback that not only jeopardized his chances of securing a new contract with Canberra but also cast a shadow over the career of this once-promising young player.
His potential move to Warrington in 2026 could provide a fresh start for Hopoate, but it's understandable that fans might be cautious, given that, including NSW Cup games, he has only played 73 times in the past five years.
On the other hand, there are several positives to consider, particularly his age – just 24. This move is not a case of an Australia player seeking one final payday but rather an opportunity for Hopoate to restart his career.
He possesses the versatility to play centre, wing, and fullback, is a powerful runner with the ball, and a strong defender. Many observers of rugby league have noted that he has all the attributes necessary to become a top player.
While there is undoubtedly an element of risk due to his injury history, if Hopoate can maintain his fitness, he could potentially become one of the best centres in the Super League next season.
It's also worth noting that the Hopoate name is synonymous with rugby league talent – his older brother, Jamil, has even suggested that Albert is the most gifted player in their family. A photograph from 2020, although taken before his recent setbacks, serves as a reminder of his potential.
What is essential, however, is that we give Hopoate a chance to prove himself. As many have noted, both in the past and present, he has the potential to become a star player.
