The Wests Tigers‘ off-season has received a boost with speedster Charlie Staines signing a two-year extension with the club after a season ruined by injury.
Staines only featured in nine games for the Tigers in 2023 following his move from Penrith, after he was sidelined with a perforated bowel early in the season.
The winger/fullback described his injury-marred first season at the club as “difficult” as he fights for a position in the Tigers starting side with Jahream Bula, David Nofoaluma and Junior Tupou.
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“It was a difficult first season here for me with the ruptured bowel, but the club was so supportive through that time,” Staines said in a club statement.
“I want to have a strong pre-season and then hit the ground running next year.
“I love it here at Wests Tigers and I’m excited to be with this group for at least another couple of years.”
Staines joins Bula, Adam Doueihi, Apisai Koroisau, Fonua Pole, Alex Seyfarth, Starford To’a and Alex Twal as Tigers players to have re-signed this year.
Head coach Benji Marshall said Staines doesn’t just bring value to the club on the field.
“We love what he brings not only as player but also as a person,” he said.
“We’re all looking forward to seeing Charlie play some great footy for this club.”
Tigers chief executive officer, Justin Pascoe, also expressed his desire to see Staines play more football after his injury issues.
“He had a horror run with injury last season but always remained positive and professional with how he went about his rehab,” he said.
“This club means a lot to Charlie, and we are delighted that he’ll be with us next season and beyond.”