Catalans Dragons head coach Joel Tomkins has leapt to the defence of Luke Keary, insisting the retiring half-back has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and resilience by playing through injury for almost the entirety of 2025.
Keary, who confirmed earlier this year that he would hang up his boots at the end of the current Super League season, arrived in Perpignan with high expectations after a decorated career in the NRL. However, his time in France has been far from straightforward, as injuries and team struggles have tested both his body and reputation.
Despite those challenges, Tomkins revealed that the 33-year-old has been “pretty busted” for much of the campaign, yet has still fronted up every week. For the coach, Keary’s efforts deserve far more recognition than they have received.
‘He’s been the glue for us’
Speaking after Catalans’ shock victory over Leeds Rhinos at Headingley on Thursday night, Tomkins was full of praise for his senior playmaker.
“One of his better games, for sure,” Tomkins said of Keary’s performance. “He’s played injured most of the season. He’s pretty busted, and as I say, played injured all year, and that probably came into his decision to retire at the end of the season. I’m really proud of him. I’m proud of what he’s done this year – he’s been the glue a lot of the time for us. He doesn’t get the recognition he deserves because we’ve not played well as a team – but for me personally, he’s been great.”
Keary’s ability to hold the team together despite his own physical struggles has been one of the season’s underappreciated storylines. For Tomkins, the Australian’s contribution cannot simply be measured in tries or assists. Instead, it is his leadership, toughness, and calming presence that have kept a battered Dragons squad afloat.
Battling Through a Season of Adversity
The Dragons entered Thursday’s clash with just 18 fit players available, a situation that underlined the scale of their injury crisis. Tariq Sims played despite nursing a torn calf, while Curtis Sironen was forced off early, leaving the Catalans further depleted.
In such circumstances, Tomkins stressed the importance of his senior playmakers stepping up – and Keary did exactly that.
“We needed Ben Garcia, Theo Fages and Keary to lead us and they did tonight,” Tomkins explained.
The result at Headingley was not only a much-needed morale boost for the Dragons but also a testament to the resilience of a team that continues to fight despite the odds stacked against them.
A Career Nearing Its End
For Keary, this season represents the final chapter in a decorated career. A three-time NRL Premiership winner with the Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs, he was once regarded among the finest halves in the game. His decision to move to Catalans was seen as both an exciting signing for Super League and an opportunity to finish his playing days in a new environment.
Yet the grind of injuries – both past and present – has taken its toll. Keary has battled concussions, shoulder problems, and now a lingering set of physical issues that ultimately influenced his decision to retire. While his impact in Super League may not have been as explosive as some anticipated, his courage and leadership have shone through in difficult circumstances.
Tomkins’ defence of Keary is a timely reminder that fans and critics often overlook the unseen sacrifices players make for their teams. The half-back’s willingness to strap up and take the field each week, knowing he was less than fully fit, underlines a level of professionalism that younger players in the squad will not soon forget.
The Unsung Hero of Catalans’ Season
While the Dragons have endured an inconsistent campaign, Keary’s role has been pivotal in keeping them competitive. His ability to steer the side around the park, create structure, and provide guidance for younger players has been vital in games where the squad was stretched to its limits.
The Headingley win may not change the course of Catalans’ season dramatically, but it showcased what the team can achieve when its leaders deliver. For Tomkins, Keary’s influence on and off the field will be remembered long after he plays his final game.
“He’s been the glue,” Tomkins repeated. It is a phrase that captures Keary’s season perfectly – not flashy, not headline-grabbing, but absolutely essential.
Looking Ahead
As the Super League season moves towards its conclusion, Catalans will hope to build on their unexpected result against Leeds and finish strongly. For Keary, every game now carries added significance as he edges closer to retirement.
While he may not receive the accolades often reserved for star imports, his teammates and coaches know the true value of his contribution. Playing through pain, guiding a patched-up squad, and keeping standards high in adversity – these are the hallmarks of a leader.
Tomkins’ words serve as both recognition and a farewell tribute. In a sport where physical toughness is a given, Keary has shown the rare mental toughness to continue performing when his body has been far from cooperative. That, perhaps more than anything else, is why his career will be remembered with respect.
