A late bloomer to the NRL, the St George Illawarra Dragons have rewarded winger Jordan Pereira with a new 2-year deal.
His new deal will see him remain with the club until the end of the 2020 season.
Since making his debut back in round 19 of the current 2018 season, the winger played in all games up until the Dragons finals loss.
His journey has seen him go many places.
Born in New Zealand, Pereira has lived and played rugby league in Samoa, Perth, Mackay and then the Dragons.
For that reason, the new deal means so much to the NRL journeyman.
“Five years ago I was playing park footy,” Pereira said.
“Now I have to pinch myself considering I’m playing with the likes of Jack de Belin, Tyson Frizell, Ben Hunt and Gareth Widdop.
It’s definitely a blessing.”
The stability and security as well as enjoying his time at the club are what Pereira was hoping for.
“It’s really good news for my fiancé and I to add that stability and security to our future,” he continued.
“Being here gives us that extra bit of happiness.
“We wanted to stay and the two extra pre-seasons will be so beneficial to me, particularly for my development.”
Proud to represent the Dragons, Pereira has no plans to relinquish his winger spot in 2019.
“I’m very happy to be running around in first grade now and it’s definitely something I don’t want to give up,” Pereira continued.
“I’m very proud to be representing this club and hopefully there’s more NRL games to come.”
Pereira’s hard-work was praised by the club and it is a sign that it does indeed pay off.
“We have rewarded Jordan for his step up into first grade,” Dragons Director of Rugby League Pathways and List Management Ian Millward said.
“He’s very mature for his age and with another two pre-seasons under his belt, his efforts will become even greater.”
“He’s a focused individual who appreciates the environment he’s in, but also understands what he’s here for.
“He’s played quite a few first grade games now and it’s really pleasing to see his hard work pay off and for him to take his chances.”