Huge boost for Wakefield Trinity as star forward Kelepi Tanginoa signs long-term deal

Ever-present forward Kelepi Tanginoa has signed a new contract which will keep him at Wakefield Trinity until the end of the 2024 season.

Tanginoa has played in all 36 of Trinity's games since his arrival midway through last season, scoring seven tries.

The 26-year-old played for Parramatta Eels, North Queensland Cowboys and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles between 2013 and 2019 before m oving to Betfred Super League.

Tanginoa said: “I'm really happy to be here for years to come.

"It is really exciting for me and my family and gives us some stability for the next couple of years as I look to build on my 18 months here."

He added: “I've built such a good relationship with my team-mates.

"When I first joined this club, I instantly felt like I just belonged here and felt completely at home.

"I get along with all the players here and can't wait to spend these next four years with them.

"I'll just continue to do what I've been doing and that's playing my best for the team each week.

"That's my goal moving forward, to perform each week."

Tanginoa scored a brace of tries in Trinity's final game of the year, against Salford Red Devils last week.

Coach Chris Chester said after that game a new deal for the prop or second-rower was a priority for the off-season.

“I’m more than thrilled that Kelepi has pledged his future to Wakefield Trinity," Chester said.

“The way he performs on the field is there for everyone to see and he is such a nice kid and a joy to have around the place.

"We wanted to tie Kelepi down and build a team around him moving forward, so I'm delighted we've got the deal over the line.

"I can't wait to continue working with him over the next four years."

Trinity chief executive Michael Carter said: “This is a massive signing for the club.

"I'm delighted that Kelepi has pledged his long-term future to us.

"As you can imagine, after the last 36 games in which he has been ever-present, he had many suitors both in England and back in the NRL, however, we want to keep our best players and build around them, with Kelepi certainly fitting in that category."

Carter added: “His relationship with the head coach was what got him here in the first instance and has kept him here.

"I look forward to watching Kelepi in the red, white and blue for at least the next four years."Trinity Head Coach, Chris Chester, said: “I’m more than thrilled that Kelepi has pledged his future to Wakefield Trinity. It's a massive signing for the Club.

Support the YEP and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news and the latest on Leeds United, With a digital subscription, you see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.