The era of Shane Flanagan has officially begun at St George Illawarra, with two of the club's best players extending their stay with the club.
In a major boost for the struggling Dragons, experienced forward Jack de Belin has taken up his player option for 2024, with his future beyond next year still undecided.
The 32-year-old missed over two years due to a serious court case, but has been among the club's most consistent performers since returning to the NRL in 2021.
De Belin also led the Dragons in a recent game and has been pushing for a return to the State of Origin arena, with NSW officials reportedly considering selecting the lock-forward for the series opener.
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Mikaele Ravalawa has also signed a long-term deal, with the explosive Fijian winger set to remain in the Red V until at least the end of 2026.
The 25-year-old has crossed for 56 tries in 79 games since joining the Saints four years ago, while his work out of the backfield continually allows the side to start their sets on the front-foot.
Michael Molo has re-signed for a further season, while young quintet Hamish Stewart, Finau Latu, Nick Tsougranis, Savelio Tamale and Dylan Egan have extended their stays and will move into the club's top 30 roster in future seasons.
“This confirms multiple pieces that have been in the works for several months which provides a balance between retention of three of current top 30 players and three of our elite pathways players,” said Dragons football manager Ben Haran.
“Whilst our external recruitment has by necessity been on hold, internal workings have continued to progress in the background.
“Now with Shane Flanagan confirmed as head coach from 2024, all these things that have been underway can get locked in.”
Dragons CEO Ryan Webb provides NRL recruitment update
With plenty of spots still open in the club's roster for the next two seasons, Flanagan will now look to sign some big names - especially with the all-important November 1st date approaching.
Luke Thompson has already been in the club's sights as a middle-forward option, while the incoming coach has indicated outside backs and a back-up hooker are also areas he will explore.
Dragons CEO Ryan Webb provided an update on the club's recruitment plans via a member's email on Tuesday.
"Our NRL recruitment has been spoken about a lot and it is worth noting that it was stalled for several months while we determined our 2024 head coach," he said.
"We were mindful that any players who are recruited to a club need to suit the needs and style of the coach, so we had to get that piece in place first.
"Since Shane's appointment we have accelerated our work in this space as he has identified the positions where our roster needs strengthening and our recruitment staff are now working with him on this."
Five players remain off-contract at the end of 2023 - Moses Mbye, Billy Burns, Nick Tui-Loso, Tyrell Fuimaono and Tautau Moga - with none of them expected to earn an extension under Flanagan.
Webb also continued the club's stance on Ben Hunt, who was denied his request for an early release and looks set to remain in Wollongong until the end of 2025.
"The request from Ben Hunt for a release is disappointing and has been denied by the club," the CEO said.
"Both our current coach and incoming coach see him as an important part of our playing squad. We will continue to work with Ben and his management to address his concerns and ensure that he can see the positive path ahead."
St George Illawarra Dragons off-contract list
| 2023 | Billy Burns, Moses Mbye, Nick Tui-Loso, Tautau Moga, Tyrell Fuimaono |
| 2024 | Alec Tuitavake, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Cody Ramsey, Francis Molo, Jack de Belin, Jack Bird, Jaiyden Hunt, Jaydn Su'A, Mat Feagai, Max Feagai, Michael Molo, Moses Suli, Paul Turner, Talatau Amone, Tyrell Sloan, Zane Musgrove |
| 2025 | Ben Hunt, Jacob Liddle, Jayden Sullivan, Viliami Fifita |
| 2026 | Blake Lawrie, Mikaele Ravalawa, Zac Lomax |
