One of the NRL’s most underrated centres, Tim Simona, has signed a contract extension that will have him playing at Wests Tigers at least until the end of the 2017 season.
Simona this week elected to take up an option in his contract.
“I believe we can build something special with the group we have here and obviously that’s something I want to be part of,’’ Simona said.
Wests Tigers head coach Jason Taylor highlighted the important role Simona plays at the club.
“What I’ve really loved about Tim this season is his energy, he’s brought so much of that to our team and our performances,” Taylor said.
“His effort off the ball has been absolutely outstanding and then his creativity with the ball in his hands is as good as any centre in the game.
“Defensively he has kept improving, which has seen him reach a level where he is a real strong point in our defensive system,” he said.
A product of the Balmain junior representative system, Simona, 24, has scored 21 tries in 63 games for the club since making his NRL debut in 2011.
Simona is currently in camp with the Samoan squad ahead of this weekend’s match against Tonga, which will be his fifth Test appearance after making his international debut in the 2014 Four Nations tournament.
The Doonside Roos junior said he was pleased to commit his future to the club for another season.
“I’m obviously really happy to extend my time with Wests Tigers,” Simona said.
“I love being part of the club and playing with guys that I’ve known since I was a kid.
“To play another season at Wests Tigers is something I’m really excited about because I believe we have an exciting future ahead and we are headed in the right direction.
“It was great to be back on the field last week and my goal for the rest of the year is to play every game and help the team build momentum while also improving my own attributes as a player,” he said.
♦ Player Profile: Tim Simona
Born: 20/11/1991, Auckland, New Zealand
Junior Club: Doonside Roos
Position: Centre/Wing/Fullback
Height: 183cm
Weight: 90kg
FG Debut: Wests Tigers v Newcastle, Leichhardt Oval, 06/06/2011
Rep Honours: 4 Tests for Samoa (2014-15)
