Wakefield Trinity fend off rivals to keep hold of dynamic Kelepi Tanginoa until end of 2024 Super League season

The dynamic forward has been a stand-out performer with Trinity for a second season running and it was no surprise impressed clubs had been circling for the talented Australian.

He was under contract until the end of the next campaign but Trinity have now moved to stave off interest by securing him on a contract until the end of 2024.

The West Yorkshire club has suffered a difficult campaign finishing second bottom but ever-present Tanginoa – he has featured in all 36 games since arriving from Manly Sea Eagles in May last year – was in no doubt about where his future lies.

“I’ve built such a good relationship with my team-mates,” he said.

“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 and can’t wait to spend these next four years with them.

“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 last 18 months here.

“One thing I’m really excited about is playing in front of the fans once again; they make a massive difference to us on the field because they just bring us that energy and it’ll be really good to get them back next year.”

With his forceful carries and no-nonsense attitude in defence, Tanginoa has proved himself to be one of the finest and most consistent forwards in Super League.

Trinity chief executive Michael Carter knows just how valuable the 26-year-old is to Chris Chester’s side.

He 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.

“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.”

The industrious Tanginoa has made almost 2,000m this term and his 258 carries sees him sit sixth highest in the competition.

His 479 tackles are only bettered by Kyle Wood at Trinity but statistics alone do not paint the full picture. At times, especially during their 10-game losing run, Tanginoa would almost carry the side on his own shoulders.

Understandably, Chester said: “I’m more than thrilled that Kelepi has pledged his future here.

“It’s a massive signing for the club.

“The way he performs on the field is there for everyone to see.

“However, 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 the next four years.”

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