Simon Mannering

Re-signing players that make a big impact on your side is crucial and for the New Zealand Warriors, they know the importance of leadership and impact players, which is why they have re-signed Simon Mannering until the end of the 2018 NRL season.

The new 4-year deal for the Warriors captain is seen as one of the most significant in the club’s history by co-owner, Eric Watson.

To add to that re-signing of Mannering, the club also extended the contracts of prop Jacob Lillyman (2017) and utility forward Sione Lousi (2016).

“This a signal of how much the Vodafone Warriors mean to Simon, Jacob, Sione and all the other players who have re-signed,” Watson said.

“It’s also a tribute to the work Dean Bell (general manager football operations) is doing with Wayne Scurrah (chief executive) with our recruitment.”

The re-signing of Mannering is the most crucial, though, given the club know what he is capable of both on and off the field and for the leadership skills he brings.

“Simon’s signing is a fantastic coup and a huge boost for the club,” he said.

“He is exceptional across the board as our record-holding captain, a player of the highest order and also a person of tremendous quality.

“I’m elated he is extending his career with us to what will be 14 seasons. Only a few in the game today can measure their dedication to one club in such terms.”

Mannering, 27, drew interest from other clubs but it was ultimately a love for the Warriors team and franchise and family reasons, that were behind his decision to stay.

“This is the biggest contract of my career because it could possibly be my last,” he said.

“I love this club and always will. I’m keen to be a part of our future and have the greatest faith in the direction to the club is heading. We have much to offer this season and in years to come.

“It’s not just about football, though. I also have my family to consider. That was a big part of the decision and I’m really happy it has all worked out.”

New to the coaching world but familiar with Mannering is current head coach Andrew McFadden, who expressed his delight at the decision by Mannering to stay at the club.

“I have the greatest admiration for Simon and what he means to the team and the club,” he said.

“It’s the same with Jacob. Like Simon, he’s such an experienced and consistent performer, the type of player we place the highest value on in our squad.

“Sione started the season really well after his injury trouble last year and has a lot to offer us as do all the players re-signed.”

In addition to the NRL trio re-signing, several young players have been re-signed by the club.

John Palavi, who recently made his NRL debut, has re-signed until 2016, as has prop Charlie Gubb.

David Bhana, Sam Lisone, Solomone Kata, Brad Abbey and David Fusitua – all talented youngsters – re-signed until the end of 2016.

Tuimoala Lolohea, one of the Warriors’ most talented kids coming through the ranks has a new deal until 2017 and prop Suaia Matagi has a new 1-year deal until the end of 2015.

By ricky

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