The Manly Sea Eagles have acted swiftly to re-sign Josh Aloiai and have done so, keeping him until the end of season 2025.
A hard-working prop, Aloiai’s efforts have seen him become a fan favourite among the Manly faithful.
Aloiai praised Manly coach Des Hasler for his openness and transparency towards him.
“I’ve got a really good relationship with Des,” Aloiai said.
“He has always been transparent with me and treated me with the upmost respect.
“At the same time, I respect Des because he holds no punches. That’s what I love about him.
“By Des rewarding me with this new contract, it doesn’t mean it’s time for me to put my hands up and say, ‘yeah I’ve made it’ or anything like that.
Aloiai wants to play harder, be better and help guide the next generation of players at Manly to become better.
“It comes with a responsibility to play harder, to lead more, to help develop the young kids at Manly, to leave a good legacy, and to help this club become stronger. That’s the responsibility I now have,” Aloiai continued.
“What I’m really blessed about is that I am surrounded by such a good playing group.
“I’ve forged some really strong relationships with my team-mates. It helps me to be a leader.”
Aloiai is appreciative for the opportunities that Manly have given him and he cherishes every chance he has to don the Manly jersey.
“My family are the people that have been with me through the injuries, setbacks, or disappointments. I’m really grateful I have the opportunity to create a good life for them now,” Aloiai said.
“I feel very blessed. I owe Manly a lot. They see it by what I produce on the field, what I produce at training, and everything I give to this club.
“Every time I pull on the Manly jersey, I ask myself ‘what can I do for this jersey’ and what can I do for my team-mates next to me. I certainly cherish it.”
Interim Manly CEO Gary Wolman is pleased to see Aloiai stay at the club.
“Josh is a wonderful young man who is a quality asset to our club, both on and off the field,’’ Wolman said.
“To have him extend for a further two years is very exciting news for the Sea Eagles as we push hard for another premiership title.”
