Already signed on for 2015, the Penrith Panthers wasted no time in shoring up the future of exciting winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, as he re-signed for the 2016 season.
It was in Rd 5 last year when the boom rookie nicknamed DWZ made his debut in which he performed well, with the club rating the winger very highly.
Dallin himself could not be happier and is at a club that he loves.
“I’m truly grateful and blessed that the Panthers want to keep me on for another year,” said Watene-Zelezniak.
“I’m really looking forward to putting in 100% for the club, and I can’t wait to get out on the field with the boys.â€
“I want to thank Ivan, Gus and Justin for giving me this opportunity, and I want to thank the members and Panthers fans for all of their support.”
With a huge junior and talent pool to immerse themselves with, maintaining the right, young quality players is a must for the Panthers, according to Penrith District Rugby League CEO, Justin Pascoe.
“As an organisation, we are thrilled that Dallin is extending his contract with us. He is an exceptional young man who continually demonstrates a maturity beyond his years,” said Pascoe.
“As an individual, Dallin has a lot ahead of him both on and off the field and we are confident that we can continue to provide him with the platform required to continue his growth, both as a footballer and a person.”
Someone who does rate him highly at the club is Executive General Manager Phil Gould, who believes that the best is yet to come from the exciting, young prospect.
“It’s wonderful,” said Gould.
“I am very happy for Dallin and his family. Dallin is another of the outstanding young talents who have graduated through our junior league and development pathways. I see great things ahead for him.
“We are so lucky to have a player and person the quality of Dallin here at Panthers.”