Roosters re-sign talented trio to long-term deals
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Rising star Sitili Tupouniua has knocked back more money offered by rival clubs, inking a new two-year deal that will keep him at the Roosters alongside fellow rookies Poasa Faamausili and Billy Smith.
The Tricolours announced the three extensions on Sunday, with Tupouniua's retention a particular endorsement for the premiers given the Warriors led a slew of interest in the 21-year-old edge back-rower.
Tupouniua has risen to prominence with some eye-catching performances off the bench in 2019, coach Trent Robinson conceding that only the club's strong forward stocks had prevented him cementing a first grade spot earlier.
His new deal ties him up until the end of 2021, as is the case with 19-year-old centre Smith, while Faamausili's extension takes the prop through to the end of 2022.
"The club is my family, and I'm learning so much from Trent, the coaches and the senior players, so I'm really happy to have re-signed with the Roosters, and excited to keep working with the team here," Tupouniua said.
Tupouniua and Faamausili have been groomed as part of the club's next generation for some time, coming through the ranks alongside star centres Latrell Mitchell and Joey Manu, as well as the likes of Nat Butcher and Victor Radley.
"It's been great to watch the development of Sitili, Poasa and Billy over the years," Robinson said.
"In their own right, their work ethic precedes them, and they embody the values we want in our players both on and off the field, so it's really pleasing that they will continue to represent our club and our area."
