Disturbing details have revealed Kato Ottio's death may have been caused by his will to be a professional role model for his Hunters teammates.
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The 23-year-old embarked on a road run with several Hunters teammates in 33 degree heat in Port Moresby.
Ottio then urged teammates to run back with him, although several walked back, while others caught a lift on the way back.
It ended in tragedy for the young star who began slowing as he ran back before eventually collapsing, falling into a coma and never regaining consciousness.
Ottio's manager, Steve Deacon said his decision to continue running may ultimately have cost him his life.
"The run was over and a few of the boys walked back while others got a ride," Deacon said.
"But Kato told a few of the players ‘let’s run back’ — he wanted to use the professionalism he gained from his time at Canberra to rub off on his younger countrymen."
"He got slower and eventually collapsed. He was unconscious and in a coma and they were not able to revive him."
"He was a great guy and I’m just devastated."
Ottio signed a contract with Widnes to develop his rugby league career playing in the Super League.
He was previoulsly contracted with the Canberra Raiders and was also a member of the Kumuls squad for the 2017 World Cup, playing all four games.
The Intrust Super Cup champions have put their pre-season on hold indefinitely while club players and officials come to terms with the loss.
