Dragons young gun Sione Finau will remain at the club for a further two seasons, signing an upgraded deal that will see the flyer join the top 30 roster next year.
The 21-year-old joined St George Illawarra alongside older brother Haele in pre-season, coming from the Melbourne Storm system and becoming an instant fixture in the reserve grade lineup.
Finau has crossed for 14 tries in 22 games this season in NSW Cup and has been part of the club's extended NRL squad on numerous occasions, with his debut seemingly not far away.
The talented winger joins the likes of Savelio Tamale and Nick Tsougranis as players yet to debut that have re-signed with the Dragons, with incoming head coach Shane Flanagan looking towards a long-term rebuild.
MORE: Rabbitohs prop Hame Sele signs three-year deal with Dragons
Sione Finau re-signs with Dragons until end of 2025 season
In a statement released on Monday afternoon, Finau said he was excited to continue his journey in the Red V after moving his life from Victoria to Wollongong this year.
“It was one of the biggest decisions I’ve ever made,” Finau said.
“I just think I’ve built something here along with the boys. I’ve fitted in pretty well with the culture that the boys have and just the bond. It feels like I’ve grown up here, like I’ve been here for a long time even though it’s only been a year.
“This year has been the best year that I’ve ever played. I’ve grown up as a player and played my best footy.
"I had a meeting with Flanno, which was pretty good. I was a bit nervous my first time meeting him, but he was pretty straightforward. He gave me a bit of insight on what’s going to happen.
"I took in his points, and it really helped me with my decision… he’s already spoken to me about the changes that are going to happen. I really believe that the club’s going to go somewhere next year.
"I’m enjoying it… It’s like home now. I love it here. I love the Dragons.”
Finau will likely push for a spot on the wing in 2024, with Flanagan expected to shake things up in the St George Illawarra backline in a bid to turn things around on the field.
His 23-year-old brother Haele, who has played at hooker and halfback for the NSW Cup side across 22 appearances, is yet to re-sign with the Dragons despite an impressive first year in the red and white.
St George Illawarra Dragons NRL off-contract list
| 2023 | Billy Burns, 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, Viliami Fifita, Sione Finau |
| 2026 | Blake Lawrie, Mikaele Ravalawa, Zac Lomax, Hame Sele* |
*Hame Sele will join the club next year
