News
November 05, 2025
Junior Paulo loves leading Samoa. But it’s starting to impact his health
The Samoan co-captain feels physically and mentally fresh – but the same cannot be said for his vocal cords.
**Junior Paulo loves leading Samoa. But it’s starting to impact his health**
Junior Paulo, the powerhouse prop and co-captain of the Samoan rugby league team, is finding that leading his nation comes at a cost. While he feels energized and mentally sharp in his role, the constant demands of leadership, particularly the vocal aspect, are beginning to take a toll on his physical wellbeing.
Paulo, a veteran of the NRL and a respected figure in the rugby league community, has embraced his leadership position within the Samoan squad with passion and dedication. He's known for his commanding presence on the field and his ability to inspire his teammates. However, the vocal exertion required to guide and motivate the team during training and matches is impacting his vocal cords.
Sources close to the Samoan camp have noted Paulo's increasingly hoarse voice and the frequency with which he relies on throat lozenges and other remedies. The issue isn't affecting his performance on the field, where he continues to be a dominant force, but it's becoming a noticeable concern within the team.
"Junior gives everything he has to the team, both physically and emotionally," said a team insider. "He's constantly communicating, encouraging, and directing. It's just a natural part of his leadership style. But all that shouting, especially during intense games, is definitely taking a toll on his voice."
The demanding schedule of international rugby league, with its travel and high-pressure matches, exacerbates the issue. Recovery time is limited, and the need to constantly project his voice puts added strain on Paulo's vocal cords.
While Paulo hasn't publicly commented on the specific challenges to his vocal health, it's understood that the Samoan coaching staff are aware of the situation and are exploring strategies to mitigate the impact. These strategies may include implementing clearer communication protocols on the field, delegating some vocal responsibilities to other senior players, and ensuring Paulo has access to adequate rest and vocal rehabilitation.
The health of their captain is paramount, and the Samoan team is determined to find a sustainable way for Paulo to continue leading them without sacrificing his well-being. The hope is that with careful management and support, Paulo can continue to inspire his team and represent Samoa with the same passion and dedication, without risking permanent damage to his voice.
Junior Paulo, the powerhouse prop and co-captain of the Samoan rugby league team, is finding that leading his nation comes at a cost. While he feels energized and mentally sharp in his role, the constant demands of leadership, particularly the vocal aspect, are beginning to take a toll on his physical wellbeing.
Paulo, a veteran of the NRL and a respected figure in the rugby league community, has embraced his leadership position within the Samoan squad with passion and dedication. He's known for his commanding presence on the field and his ability to inspire his teammates. However, the vocal exertion required to guide and motivate the team during training and matches is impacting his vocal cords.
Sources close to the Samoan camp have noted Paulo's increasingly hoarse voice and the frequency with which he relies on throat lozenges and other remedies. The issue isn't affecting his performance on the field, where he continues to be a dominant force, but it's becoming a noticeable concern within the team.
"Junior gives everything he has to the team, both physically and emotionally," said a team insider. "He's constantly communicating, encouraging, and directing. It's just a natural part of his leadership style. But all that shouting, especially during intense games, is definitely taking a toll on his voice."
The demanding schedule of international rugby league, with its travel and high-pressure matches, exacerbates the issue. Recovery time is limited, and the need to constantly project his voice puts added strain on Paulo's vocal cords.
While Paulo hasn't publicly commented on the specific challenges to his vocal health, it's understood that the Samoan coaching staff are aware of the situation and are exploring strategies to mitigate the impact. These strategies may include implementing clearer communication protocols on the field, delegating some vocal responsibilities to other senior players, and ensuring Paulo has access to adequate rest and vocal rehabilitation.
The health of their captain is paramount, and the Samoan team is determined to find a sustainable way for Paulo to continue leading them without sacrificing his well-being. The hope is that with careful management and support, Paulo can continue to inspire his team and represent Samoa with the same passion and dedication, without risking permanent damage to his voice.
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Politics