Having now had a taste of first grade, Leo Thompson will be hoping for more, with the talented youngster re-signing at the Newcastle Knights for three more seasons.
Only 22, Thompson is a rugby union convert who has played consistently for the Knights since debuting, resulting in an upgraded top 30 spot and now a new contract.
It was back in Gisborne, New Zealand, where Thompson honed firstly his rugby league skills before he eventually moved to the Canberra Raiders Jersey Flegg side.
Knights coach Adam O’Brien praised Thompson’s aggression, athleticism and skill.
“Leo has been a great find for the club,” O’Brien said.
“His contribution in his debut season has been enormous, especially considering his inexperience in rugby league, let alone the number of games and the quality of his performances at NRL level.“
O’Brien also believes that Thompson is yet to reach his ceiling in the game and expects him to constantly improve his game.
“I believe we have only scratched the surface, we don’t know what his ceiling might be, what I do know is his best football is still in front of him and that is very exciting,” O’Brien continued.