It’s Done: The NRL world is sending messages of support following news about Jamal Fogarty and his partner Kahlia Walsh…… more details
The rugby league community has been overcome with emotion and compassion following the heartbreaking news involving Canberra Raiders star Jamal Fogarty and his partner Kahlia Walsh. In a rare moment that transcends sport, the NRL world has united to send waves of love, encouragement, and strength to the couple as they navigate what is described as one of the most difficult chapters of their lives.
Though details surrounding the situation remain private, the response from players, coaches, clubs, and fans has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Canberra Raiders released a brief but heartfelt statement confirming that both the organization and the NRL are standing firmly beside Fogarty and Walsh during this challenging time.
Jamal has been an incredible leader, teammate, and person — both on and off the field. Our hearts are with him and Kahlia right now, said Raiders CEO Don Furner, The entire Raiders family is united in offering them every form of support they need. This is bigger than football — this is about standing together as people.
Fogarty, known for his leadership, discipline, and resilience, has long been admired by fans and fellow players for his humility and quiet strength. From his early days fighting to earn a place in the NRL to becoming one of the Raiders’ most respected playmakers, his journey has embodied perseverance. His relationship with Kahlia has also been an anchor of love and stability throughout his career, often admired by fans who see them as the perfect example of devotion and balance beyond the sporting world.
As the news broke, messages of support flooded social media within minutes. The hashtags StayStrongJamal, PrayersForKahlia, and RaidersFamily began trending across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Fans from every corner of the country, including supporters of rival teams, expressed compassion and empathy for the couple.
Teammate Jack Wighton, a close friend of Fogarty, posted an emotional message that read, You’ve always been one of the strongest and most genuine people I know, brother. We’re all behind you and Kahlia — every single one of us. Stay strong, family.
Fellow NRL stars Latrell Mitchell, Nathan Cleary, and Cameron Munster also shared public statements, praising Fogarty’s character and calling on the community to lift him and his partner up during this time. When one of us hurts, we all hurt, Mitchell wrote. The game is a brotherhood, and right now, our brother needs our love.
The NRL Chief Executive, Andrew Abdo, also released an official message, echoing the sentiments of unity and compassion shared by the wider community. The NRL is a family that extends beyond competition. Jamal and Kahlia have given so much to this game and to their community. Now, it’s our turn to give back through unwavering support and respect for their privacy, Abdo said.
At the Raiders’ headquarters, teammates and staff have described the atmosphere as one of quiet solidarity. Many players have privately reached out to Fogarty and Walsh, offering words of comfort and reminding them that they are not alone. It’s hard seeing a mate go through something like this, one player said anonymously. But Jamal’s strength has always inspired us — we’ll stand by him through everything.
Fogarty, 30, has built a reputation not just as a leader on the field but as a role model off it. His involvement in youth programs, Indigenous community work, and mentoring young players has made him one of the NRL’s most respected figures. For fans, the thought of seeing him in distress has sparked an outpouring of emotional tributes that reflect how deeply loved and admired he is.
Many supporters have shared memories of meeting Fogarty at fan events, describing him as humble, approachable, and genuine. One lifelong Raiders fan wrote online, Jamal never walks past a fan without saying hello. That’s the kind of man he is — kind, grounded, and full of heart. He deserves all the love coming his way.
The NRL Players’ Association (RLPA) has also stepped in to ensure both Jamal and Kahlia have access to emotional, mental health, and counseling support. The association emphasized the importance of privacy, asking fans and media outlets to approach the matter with care and compassion.
While it remains unclear how this will affect Fogarty’s immediate playing schedule, the Raiders organization has made it clear that family and well-being come first. Training sessions have continued as normal, but the team has dedicated their focus and spirit to honoring their teammate in any way they can.
As messages of hope continue to pour in, the overwhelming tone across the NRL world is one of empathy and solidarity. It’s a reminder that even in a game built on toughness and competition, the true heart of rugby league lies in humanity, love, and unity.
Whatever Jamal Fogarty and Kahlia Walsh are facing, they are not facing it alone. The entire rugby league world — from fans to legends — is standing behind them, sending prayers, strength, and love their way.