Kelepi Tanginoa signs extension deal at Wakefield Trinity

Picture by Chris Mangnall/SWpix.com - 16/02/2020 - Rugby League - Betfred Super League - Wakefield Trinity v Warrington Wolves - The Mobile Rocket Stadium, Wakefield, England - Wakefield's Kelepi Tanginoa

The 26-year-old is set to remain at Belle Vue until the end of the 2024 season after it was announced on Friday he had agreed a new contract with the club.

Head coach Chris Chester identified the forward as the type of player he wants to build his team around after Tanginoa enjoyed a fine campaign for Trinity in 2020.

Following stints with Parramatta Eels, North Queensland Cowboys and Manly Sea Eagles between 2013 and 2019, Tanginoa joined Wakefield part way through the 2019 season.

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com - 29/10/2020 - Rugby League - Betfred Super League - Leeds Rhinos v Wakefield Trinity - The Totally Wicked Stadium, Langtree Park, St Helens, England - Wakefield's Kelepi Tanginoa & Tom Johnstone celebrate victory over Leeds.

He soon became a fan favourite, playing a host of positions and continued to display his value to Chester's side in 2020.

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

"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.

“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.

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com - 31/01/2020 - Rugby League - Betfred Super League - Hull KR v Wakefield Trinity - Hull College Craven Park, Hull, England - Wakefield coach Chris Chester.

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

“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.

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

Chester added: “I’m more than thrilled that Kelepi has pledged his future to Wakefield Trinity. It's a massive signing for the club.

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com - 22/10/2020 - Rugby League - Betfred Super League - Huddersfield Giants v Wakefield Trinity - The Totally Wicked Stadium, Langtree Park, St Helens, England - Kelepi Tanginoa.

“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 over the next four years. I would also like to place on record my thanks to Kelepi's agent, Sam Ayoub. Sam has been great throughout this process, ensuring it has all ran smoothly, and we can't thank him enough."