Penrith have locked boom centre Izack Tago into a new contract, with the 20-year-old to stay at the foot of the Mountains until at least the end of the 2025 season.
He was already signed for next season but would have been free to talk to rival clubs from November 1.
Tago has established himself as one of the game’s most explosive centres this season, finding a home on the left after Matt Burton left the club at the end of the 2021 season.
“Re-signing with the club that I debuted for means so much to me. To stay with the boys that I’ve played with over the last few years makes it even better,” Tago said.
“I’m proud to represent this area. I’ve been here my whole life and this place is home to me. I’m excited for the opportunity to represent the community.”
A St Marys junior and product of the Panthers junior development pathways, Tago made his first grade debut in Round 13 last season, and has gone on to play 20 NRL games for the club.
Not only is Tago the only Panthers player to have played every minute this season, he has been impressive on the left edge across all 14 games – scoring nine tries and assisting a further seven.
The centre’s re-signing comes after Panthers also announced contract extensions for Taylan May, Sunia Turuva, Lindsay Smith, Ativalu Lisati and Liam Henry over the past couple of weeks – highlighting the built from within mantra of the club.
“It’s great to see another local junior commit his future to the club, and we’re thrilled to see Izack remain in Panthers colours until at least the end of 2025,” Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.
“It’s been a significant week for Izack, who was also selected in the Samoa squad for next week’s Pacific Test against Cook Islands – a great reward for his hard work and dedication.
“Izack has made the most of his opportunity in first grade this season, and we’re excited to see him develop his game at Panthers over the next three years.”
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