Already signed for 2020, the Canberra Raiders have moved swiftly to re-sign talented rookie Bailey Simonsson long-term.
Simonsson, who will now be a Raiders player until the end of 2023, got opportunity when an injury to Jordan Rapana occurred.
He made the most of it and had Raiders fans excited, with 19 NRL games to his name and eight tries in that time.
The opportunity came quick and rugby league came at him fast but Simonsson is excited with his debut season.
“It’s unreal, I’ve come a long way since signing on as a train and trial deal last year,” Simonsson said.
“I’m grateful that the club has given me the opportunity to stay around and it was a no brainer for me to continue my stay here in Canberra.”
There was no pondering. Simonsson knew the Raiders were the place for him and he looks forward to what lies ahead.
“I’ve loved everything about the club since the day I arrived here and I never saw myself moving anywhere else,” he said.
“I’ve played a lot more this year than I expected to, it’s been an unreal experience and it’s one that I’m trying to take day by day.”
The Raiders have always emphasised the re-signing of key young players and this one is no different.
“Bailey is a talented young player who has been wonderful for the club in his debut season,” Raiders CEO DonFurner said.
“We’re looking forward to him continuing his development and becoming an even better player in the future.
“We want Bailey at the club long term and he’s a big part of the squad we’re building for the future.”