Hulking Tigers prop signs new deal

One of the club’s role-players and heavy hitters from the bench in Ava Seumanufagai has re-signed with the club for the next two seasons.

With 23 appearances to his name this season, he was a core element in the Tigers side throughout the year and packed a punch in defence and attack for the side.

In total, he has played in 63 games for the Tigers out of a possible 70 since making his debut in 2013.

The hulking forward is pleased to remain with the club for the next couple of seasons.

“I’ve made some good friends here at the Club and I’m really on board with what the coaches are doing,” Seumanufagai said.

“I’m really happy to continue at Wests Tigers for another two years.

“My goal this year was to play every game, and I fell just short of that by one match, but I’ve been fortunate enough not to get injured too much.”

Having been at the club for a few seasons now, it feels like home for the 24-year old, and he is excited about what lies ahead for he and the club.

“I’m really happy to be here because it feels like home,” he said.

“I love it here and I’m really glad that I get to stay.

“I’m pretty sure we’ll see some really good work come out of these guys in the next few years and I’m really happy that I’m going to be part of that.”

His form was something that impressed coach Jason Taylor throughout the year and he is pleased to retain the prop for two more seasons.

“Ava is a tireless worker and a real asset to have on our playing roster,” Taylor said.

“He’s only 24 years old, so I’m confident that his best football is still ahead of him and that’s really exciting for the Club.

“Ava’s re-signing was an important one for us and I’m glad that we’ve secured him at the Club for more two more seasons.”

Those sentiments were echoed by CEO Justin Pascoe.

“We are thrilled to have a player of Ava’s calibre commit his future to Wests Tigers,” Pascoe said.

“It re-establishes the faith that the playing group have in the direction that the Club is heading.

“Ava is yet another exciting young player to have committed to the Club long-term and we look forward to watching him continue his development.”