Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have extended the contract of New Zealand international forward Martin Taupau until the end of the 2020 season.
Sea Eagles Head of Football Bob Fulton and Coach Trent Barrett sealed the contract extension this week before Taupau headed to Perth for Saturday's Test match against Australia.
Taupau's one year extension on his existing contract is a reward for an outstanding first up season with the club in 2016.
"Martin Taupau is one of the best forwards in the world and he will only get better,’’ Fulton said.
“We are delighted to have him for another four years and his contract now has him in line in terms of length with the Trbojevic brothers Jake and Tom, who are also signed until the end of 2020.
"They, along with half-back Daly Cherry-Evans, will form the basis of a very strong team long term for the club.”
Barrett said the contract extension for Taupau was a major coup for the Sea Eagles.
"Marty loves the club and wanted to commit for a long term because he likes the direction we are going,’’ Barrett said.
“He is a tremendous competitor, great trainer, and a player willing to do the things to make himself better. He will be a key player for Manly in the years ahead.”
Taupau said he is excited about what lies ahead for him and the Sea Eagles.
“I am very happy with this extension of my contract. I thoroughly enjoyed my first season with the Sea Eagles this year,’’ Taupau said.
“There is a lot to like about the direction the team is heading in. Trent Barrett is a wonderful coach and I look forward to further developing my game under him.
“The Sea Eagles are also making great progress off the field and I am glad to be part of their plans.
“I have made my commitment to the club and I encourage supporters to do the same by becoming Members. They are the lifeblood of this club. I can’t wait to pull on the Manly jersey again next year.”
Martin Taupau 2016 season for Manly
20 games, 1291 minutes, 277 runs, 2854 run metres (average 142m per game), 4 line breaks, 32 offloads, 536 tackles, 58 tackle breaks, 3 tries.
