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Sport Nation
How to tune into Sport NationTitans' teen star forced into medical retirement
Sam Kosack • October 17th, 2025 1:54 pm
Gold Coast Titans’ rookie Sam Stephenson has been forced into medical retirement at the age of 19.
Stephenson suffered a career-ending neck injury in Queensland Cup after debuting in the league in 2024.
The young outside back twice represented the Maroons Under 19s and was tipped for a big future in rugby league.
Stephenson announced his shock retirement on Thursday night via social media.
“Firstly, I just want to say thank you to everyone who made my journey the way that it was,” Stephenson wrote.
“All the camps and all of the training sessions, I couldn’t thank you all enough.
“Sometimes, life changes the path you thought you’d be on. It’s not ideal having to medically retire at 19 but your health is more important.
“Although my journey is being cut short, I’ll forever carry the memories, friendships and love for the sport.
“Thank you to everyone who’s supported me along the way.”
Stephenson represented the PNG Junior Kumuls in 2023 and the Australian Schoolboys in 2024.
