Blacktown Workers have re-signed several quality players in the build up to their first entry into the Intrust Super Premiership.
Following a partnership with the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, the new Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles will play in the NSWRL intrust Super Premiership under Coach Pat Weisner in 2017. Contracted Manly players who miss selected in the NRL side will be available to play for Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles.
The H.E. Laybutt Field at the Blacktown Workers Club is the home ground.
Players re-signed by Blacktown Workers
Henry Raiwalui (pictured) - 2017. Representative: Fiji international. Position: Five Eighth/Fullback
Pat Weisner says: "Henry was a standout for us last season which earned him the no 6 jersey in Fiji's historic win in Samoa last month. He has returned to training looking very sharp and is determined to hold his Test position leading into the 2017 World Cup for Fiji. He has found his passion for football again since joining us. He is a quality person and a quality player."
Jerry Key – 2017-19. Position: Centre. Previous Club. Penrith Panthers.
Pat Weisner says: "I'm really happy for Jerry. He has broken into NSW Cup this season and we look forward to him excelling at that level in the next couple of years. Jerry is a great example of the pathways to the NRL that we can provide, starting in Sydney Shield 3 years ago and now becoming a NSW Cup regular.
Jordie Hall - 2017-18. Position: Prop/Lock. Previous Club: Penrith Panthers.
Pat Weisner says: “Jordie had a tough 2016 missing most of the season after having an ankle reconstruction in the pre-season. He made his return late in the season and left us in no doubt that he was back to his best getting man-of-the-match in our last Ron Massey Cup game of the year. We are looking forward to a big pre-season and 2017 from Jordie.”
Dean Parata - 2017. Representative: Italy international. Position: Hooker
Pat Weisner says: “Dean had plenty of interest from other clubs so we are delighted our Captain is staying with us. He was our Ron Massey Cup player of the year and has earned the opportunity to test himself at a higher level in 2017. We have no doubt he will handle the step up."
Kurt Horton - 2017-18. Position: Second-row/lock/centre
Pat Weisner says: “Kurt was consistent performer in our Ron Massey Cup team having played all but one game this season. As tough as he is skillful, Kurt is looking forward to his next 2 seasons at the club.”
Josh Tangitau - 2017-18. Position: Lock/hooker
Pat Weisner says: “Josh is one of the fittest players in the competition. He moved to Lock forward midway through this season and has was outstanding there for us. He is also a very good hooker and played a game for Manly in NSW Cup this season in that position. We believe he has what it takes to go all the way in footy and are excited to see his development in the next 2 years"
Takai Moeakiola – 2017-18. Representative: Junior Kiwis. Position: Prop
Pat Weisner says: “Takai has been one of our most consistant players in the last 18months. He is one of the strongest ball runners in the Ron Massey Cup competition and still has plenty of improvement left in him. To have him commit for another 2 seasons is a huge positive for our club".
Marli Sini - 2017-18. Position: Centre/Wing
Pat Weisner says: “Marli is a proven try scorer at Ron Massey Cup level and has already shown his class debuting with Manly in NSW Cup this season. We have been monitoring Marli for a few seasons now and have always been impressed with his ability. We believe he will develop into a top class centre and have no doubt that he has the tools to play at the highest level. He has a great attitude and is very coachable".
Matt Place - 2017-18. Position: Halfback
Pat Weisner says: “Matt has been outstanding since signing 12 months ago and quickly became one of senior players. He plays with maturity beyond his years and at 24 years old still has his best years in front of him. I'm delighted he has committed for 2 years".
