For two years, rugby was no longer part of Tynealle Fitzgerald’s everyday life.

The banter with teammates, the intensity of training and the thrill of match day were replaced by rehabilitation sessions, uncertainty and difficult decisions about her future in the game.

Last Saturday, however, the Chiefs Manawa forward completed a remarkable comeback when she returned to the Super Rugby Aupiki stage after missing the entire 2025 season through injury.

They may have lost 52-26 to the Matatu but that was the least of Fitzgerald’s issues as she made a welcome return to the rugby paddock.

Though she managed a couple of games towards the end of last year with the Volcanix, all aspiring rugby players know Super Rugby Aupiki is a different and one Fitzgerald’s honoured to be back playing.

Fitzgerald’s road back began with major neck surgery after suffering a serious injury that required a disc replacement. The lengthy recovery left her facing questions not only from others, but also from herself.

“I was out for two years and I wasn’t 100 percent certain I would play again,” Fitzgerald said. “But in my head I wanted to do everything I could to play.”

As rehabilitation progressed, doubts began to creep in.

“I was second-guessing whether returning would be a good idea. My mind was very indecisive for a while.”

The first signs that a comeback was possible came late last year when Fitzgerald returned to the field for the final two matches of the Farah Palmer Cup season with Bay of Plenty Volcanix.

“I loved every minute of it,” she said.

While the physical recovery was challenging, Fitzgerald admits the emotional side of the journey was equally difficult. Rugby had been such a significant part of her life that being suddenly removed from the game left a noticeable void. “I missed it a lot to begin with. It was weird going from rugby all the time, hanging out with my mates and having banter at trainings, to nothing. It was strange and felt quite lonely.”

The absence of rugby also forced her to reflect on life away from the sport.

“It gave me time to think about what I was doing with my life because everything was based around rugby.”

For a period, she even found it difficult to watch the game she loved.

“When I would go to games, people would ask, ‘Why aren’t you playing?’, ‘Do you think you’ll play again?’ and ‘When are you allowed back?’

“It was quite draining always having the same conversation, so I naturally shied away from it for a while and watched from a distance.”

Throughout the rehabilitation process, Fitzgerald leaned heavily on those closest to her. She credits her family and partner for helping her navigate the challenges of being sidelined and keeping her spirits high.

“Once I got over the fact I wouldn’t play for a while, I really enjoyed my time away with family. I was able to go to events and family functions like birthdays and baby showers.

“I’m very grateful I was home surrounded by lots of love and support throughout my journey. I wouldn’t be here without them.”

Now back in the Chiefs Manawa environment, Fitzgerald is embracing every opportunity and refusing to take anything for granted.

“It’s good to be back amongst all the girls and in the environment. I’m really enjoying being back.”

She said she never rushed the decision to return and was thankful for the support she received from coaches and those around her.

“I was really unsure whether or not I would return. I didn’t put much pressure on myself to make a decision, but I’ve had great coaches and a great support system around me who supported me through everything and allowed me the space to make that decision.”

After what felt like an endless off-season, Fitzgerald believes she is well prepared for the challenges ahead.

“The off-season felt like it went forever, but I’m feeling well-prepped and ready for the season.”

As for her goals for the remainder of the year, they are simple.

“Keep learning, give it my all and see what happens,” she said. “Most importantly, I’m enjoying the journey and not taking anything for granted.”

After two years of uncertainty, that journey has finally brought Fitzgerald back to where she belongs – on the rugby field making plenty of tackles and dominating at the breakdown and lineout time.