In a season where not much has gone right for Wests Tigers, Joe Ofahengaue can hold his head high.
“Joffa’’ played in all 24 games and for most of them he was one of the best players on the field for the club, which has finished with the wooden spoon in 2022.
The 26-year-old forward has played 47 games for Wests Tigers since joining the club in 2021 and made his 150th NRL appearance in Round 23 this season, pictured.
Now the club has rewarded Ofahengaue with a three-year contract extension.
If it all goes according to plan – you never know what’s artound the corner in the NRL these days – he will be at Wests Tigers until at least the end of the 2025 season.
Ofahengaue says he’s looking forward to the next few years.
“I’m really pleased to extend my stay at the club after what has been a difficult year for all of us,’’ he says.
“It’s an exciting period ahead for Wests Tigers and I’m thrilled to be a part of it. I love this place and I’m looking forward to the next phase of my career under Tim Sheens and his team.
“I’m sure I speak on behalf of all the players in saying that we want to hit the ground running when we return in pre-season.
“We want to be in the best shape possible for the start of 2023.”
Incoming head coach Sheens says Ofahengaue is a quality player who has developed into a natural leader.
“We’ve brought several younger players through the pathways this season, with more to come, and Joe has played a role in their development,’’ Sheens said.
“He’s a player they look up to and are comfortable going to for advice.
“I look forward to working closely with Joe over the coming years.
“Like the younger guys, he too is always challenging himself to improve, and that’s exciting for all of us.”
Club CEO Justin Pascoe says Ofahengaue has been a consistently strong performer in his first two years at the club.
“Joe is highly respected within the playing group and the club,” he said.
“This contract extension is a reward for his professionalism, attitude, and commitment since joining us last season.’’
