Wests Tigers are pleased to announce the re-signing of young forward Sitaleki Akauola for another two seasons.
Akauola made his NRL debut in Round 5 of 2013 against the Melbourne Storm, his only top grade game that season, before earning another six NRL appearances so far in 2014.
The 22-year-old can cover a range of positions from back-row to the outside backs and will join the Wests Tigers top 25 squad next year.
The Manurewa junior expressed his delight with the new contact that will see him remain at the Club until the end of 2016.
“I’m really happy with my new deal,” Akauola said. “It has always been a dream of mine to play in the NRL and it’s great to have that opportunity with the Wests Tigers.”
“It’s really pleasing to stay for another two years and my goal is to cement a position in the NRL team through hard-work and consistent performances.”
Akauola was part of the Wests Tigers 2012 Under 20s premiership-winning side alongside current NRL players such as David Nofoaluma, Sauaso Sue and Joel Luani.
“I have a lot of great memories from 2012,” Akauola said. “There are a lot of players from that side still at the Club and hopefully we can win another premiership together in the future.”
“We are a tight group at the Wests Tigers, my teammates are like brothers to me.”
Head Coach Mick Potter said he is pleased that the Club has secured yet another promising young player on a new deal.
“Sitaleki has made a steady progression over the last couple of years,” Potter said. “I’m happy with where he is at now and I’m looking forward to him pushing forward in the future.”
“He offers great versatility to the squad and is a player with a lot of potential.”
Sitaleki Akauola
Born: 07/04/1992
Junior Club: Manurewa
Position: Second-row/Lock/Wing
Height: 192cm
Weight: 98kg
NRL Debut: Wests Tigers v Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park, Round 5, 08/05/2013
WESTS TIGERS V STORM - CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOUR SEAT!
