Experienced prop Sam Rapira has re-signed with the Warriors until the end of the 2014 NRL season.

Rapira first signed with the Warriors in 2007 as a raw 20-year-old, and new Warriors coach Brian McClennan says it's critical for the club's future to secure him on a long-term contract.

"Sam is a prop of the highest quality. He has proved himself to be one of the best in the game over the last few years," he said.

"While he's still young, he has tremendous experienceat both Test and NRL level, invaluable for us as we continue to bring younger players into out NRL squad."

McClennan says Rapira's role as a leader and mentor for the club's up-and-comers meant he had a "huge role" to play on and off the field.

Despite being troubled by a serious thumb injury, Rapira still played 21 matches this season, including the NRL grand final, lifting his career total to 123 appearances since his debut in 2006.

Rapira says it was important to have his future settled ahead of next year's NRL season.

"This is where it all started for me... The club is in great shape, we've got so many good players coming through and I want to be here to do all I can to help."