Samuela Fainu re-signs for two years at Wests Tigers

Wests Tigers are pleased to announce the re-signing of powerful second-rower Samuela Fainu for a further two seasons.

Regarded as a future leader of the Club, Fainu's new deal will keep him at Concord until the end of the 2029 season. He was already signed for 2027.

Fainu has played 65 games since making his NRL debut in Round 8, 2023, with 60 of these at Wests Tigers.

The 22-year-old won the Kelly-Barnes Medal as the Wests Tigers NRL Player of the Year in his debut season with the Club in 2024.

A strong running edge player known for his footwork and tackle-breaking ability, Fainu has scored 13 tries in his 60 games.

Fainu said he was very 'honoured' to extend his time at Wests Tigers under Head Coach Benji Marshall.

"The Club has looked after me, my family, and my brothers very well,'' Fainu said.

"I love playing alongside these boys, so to get to do it for two more years makes me very excited about what's to come.

"Benji Marshall values family and, for me, that's one of the most important things in my life.

"He not only wants me to be the best footy player I can be, but he also wants me to be the best version of myself off the field, and that's something that you can’t find in many places.

"Within the group, we have achieved so much already. You can see the changes we've made, and I truly feel we are building towards something very special here.

"As a player, I have learnt so much here and I know I still have more to learn, but I’m eager to lead and guide the younger boys next season."

Fainu added the chance to keep playing alongside his brothers, Latu, and Sione, was also very special.

"It excites me that I’ll continue to be able to play alongside my brothers,'' Fainu said.

"We’ve got much more to prove and there’s a lot in store for us.

"My family means everything to me. They are excited and overjoyed that I get to continue playing alongside my brothers."

Wests Tigers Head Coach Benji Marshall said the re-signing of Fainu is a massive boost for the Club.

“Samuela is a very big part of where we are going as a Club,’’ Marshall said.

“He is at the very beginning of his journey still but has already given us so much.

“I can’t wait to see him continue to develop here over the next three years.

“We love him and his family and it’s a pleasure to have them with us on this exciting journey."