Andre Savelio leaves Huddersfield Giants as rare brain condition forces change

Huddersfield Giants' Andre Savelio is set to walk away from full-time rugby league following health issues. Rugby League Live understands the forward will leave the Super League club after doctors advised him to consider his options as the result of a rare brain condition.

After joining the Giants ahead of the 2024 season, Savelio was stood down for six months due to a reoccurrence of a condition that has arisen throughout his 10-year playing career. That has proven to be the final straw and Savelio is now set to step away from the rigours of full-time rugby to focus on his health.

Huddersfield have recently been trying to free salary cap space to allow new head coach Luke Robinson to have further flexibility on the salary cap, and Savelio's situation saw conversations initiated and a mutual agreement has now been reached to suit all parties. The relationship between Savelio and Huddersfield is believed to be amicable, with both parties understanding of the situation.

When contacted by Rugby League Live, the 29-year-old did not wish to discuss the finer details but did admit something was in the works, adding that he was grateful for everything the game had provided him as well as Huddersfield's handling of the situation.

Furthermore, the nature of Savelio's condition means he is not required to give up the game completely, as issues tend to arise from workload rather than the physical elements of the game. As a result, a venture into the part-time game is a possibility heading into the 2025 season should that be an option he wishes to pursue, but it's believed he’ll take some time to come to a decision before committing.

Savelio started his career at St Helens and made his debut as a teenager. He subsequently joined Warrington Wolves before earning a move to the NRL with Brisbane Broncos, though injuries denied him the opportunity to showcase his talents down under.

He joined Hull FC in 2019 and after 64 appearances for the club, he joined Huddersfield Giants ahead of the 2024 season, making nine appearances.

From a Huddersfield perspective, Savelio's departure will free up more salary cap space, which will give new coach Luke Robinson further flexibility to recruit and mould his squad heading into the 2025 campaign. Jake Connor has already departed, joining Leeds Rhinos.

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