New deal...Addin Fonua Blake goes through some drills at pre-season training. Photo: Wayne Cousins
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have extended the contract of powerful forward Addin Fonua-Blake until the end of the 2018 season.
Off contract at the end of this year, Fonua-Blake’s extension is a reward for a great first season in the NRL in 2016.
Fonua-Blake made his NRL and Club debut against Parramatta Eels in round seven. He went on to play 14 matches for the Sea Eagles and was chosen in the New Zealand train-on squad for the recent Four Nations tournament.
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Coach Trent Barrett said Fonua-Blake will be a key part of the Manly forward pack next season.
“The contract extension is a good reward for Addin. He still has a lot of hard work to do, but we were happy to extend his deal,’’ Barrett said.
“Addin is a big skilful player who gives us plenty of muscle up front. He is doing really well and we are pleased to have him with us.”
Fonua-Blake said he was grateful for the opportunities he has received at the Sea Eagles.
“I am really enjoying playing at Manly. The extension gives me a chance to further develop my game by working with experienced forwards like Martin Taupau and Nate Myles,’’ Fonua-Blake said.
“My goal over this pre-season is to get fitter and stronger, so I can really hit the ground running in round one against Parramatta at Brookvale Oval. I want to be in the team for our first Sunday home game of the season.
“I also want to be more consistent. You can’t put in a 100 per cent effort one game, then 50 per cent the next. It shows on the field.
“I owe it to the club, the Manly Members, my family, but most of all, I owe it to myself to continue to grow as a player.”
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