The Sydney Roosters continued to shore up their 2024 roster with the retention of utility back Billy Smith and utility Connor Watson.
Billy Smith, who will hope that he can stay on the field long-term and avoid further ACL injuries, has shown promise when he has played and he hopes to add to that in 2024.
Smith is a player that has come through the Roosters system and he is grateful to the club for the support they showed him during the tougher times.
“I’m so grateful to the Roosters for the loyalty they’ve shown me over the years,? said Smith.
“I love the Club and I look forward to continuing to repay the Roosters for the belief they have always had in me.”
“For me personally, 2023 was my best year of footy and I’m excited to build on that in 2024.”
Roosters coach Trent Robinson was pleased to see Smith develop his game in 2023 and backs him to reach greater heights in 2024.
“Billy is an Eastern Suburbs local and he is respected by his teammates for his dedication to all aspects of his preparation and performance,” said Robinson.
“It was terrific to see Billy’s growth throughout the 2023 season and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with him.”
For Connor Watson, injuries have often struck at inopportune times but with a utility spot up for grabs and a chance to stake his claim, he is ready.
With 125 NRL games to his name so far, Watson will look to add to those with a club close to his heart.
“I’m stoked to re-commit to the Roosters for another two years,” said Watson.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with the coaches and players we have here, and to playing my role for the team.”
Robinson praised Watson for using his injury layoff as a chance to mentor and guide the next generation of talent at the club.
“While we were all disappointed for Connor at the time of his injury, it says a lot about his character that he used the year to mentor some of the younger players in our squad and to work on areas of his own development both on and off the field,” said Robinson.
“He is a much-loved member of our Club for the player and person he is, and it’s great that he will continue to represent the Roosters for the next few years,”