Tatola, Nichols and Gagan 2019 Contract Extensions
5th September 2018
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are pleased to announce the one-year contract extensions of Tevita 'Junior' Tatola, Mark Nicholls and Jacob Gagan for the 2019 season.
Tevita 'Junior' Tatola, burst onto the NRL scene this season having joined the Rabbitohs from the Wests Tigers under 20s squad. At just 21 years of age and in his rookie NRL season, the young front rower has played in 23 of 24 regular season matches, adding plenty of aggression and consistency off the bench for the Red and Green. His efforts through the year were rewarded as he represented Tonga in the mid-year Pacific Test match against Samoa, scoring a pivotal try, and will be continuing his development at the Club for at least a further twelve months.
Mark Nicholls, Rabbitohs joined the Club in 2018 and has impressed in the front row, playing 12 games so far this season adding some much-needed starch and impact to the forward pack. As an ultra-consistent competitor with plenty of experience, Nicholls has become an established campaigner in the Rabbitohs' squad.
Jacob Gagan has also extended his tenure with the Rabbitohs for a further twelve months, bolstering the Club's stocks in the outside backs. As a fleet-footed winger or centre, the 25-year-old has been a standout performer in the Intrust Super Premiership, playing eleven matches in 2018.
Head coach Anthony Seibold was delighted to have the trio locked up for at least another season. "These three are key signings to help our depth in both the forwards and the backs, and to keep the pressure on spots in our top 17," Coach Seibold said. "Junior has done a remarkable job playing in 24 straight games in first year of NRL Football, stretching back to the Charity Shield in February. 'Nico' adds experience and depth to our front row rotation and has proven this year that he can play consistent NRL-level football, and Jacob has shown a great attitude towards his training and his preparation, and he will add to that competition for positions in our backline."