The Newcastle Knights are pleased to announce centre Dane Gagai has agreed to a two-year contract extension, keeping him at the Club until at least the end of season 2017.
“Clearly Dane is a talented player and has been a wonderful addition to our Club but he is also a fantastic person away from football and in the community and that is certainly taken into consideration when building a team,” CEO Matt Gidley said.
“We understood there was a lot for Dane to consider with his family based in Queensland, but we made sure Dane knew he was a part of our long term plans.
“So while negotiations can be drawn out at times, we are happy to see Dane re-sign and commit to Newcastle.”
Gagai joined the Knights midway through season 2012 from the Brisbane Broncos and has played a total of 64 games for Newcastle.
“This was a really big decision for me and my family,” the 24-year-old explains.
“I owe the Knights a lot because they gave me a chance when Anthony Griffin let me go in 2012, but I still had a number of factors to consider in making this decision with my family living in Queensland.
“I am really happy the decision has been made because I am enjoying my football and I love it here.”
Gagai is originally from Mackay and says the similarities to Newcastle make him feel at home.
“I have been made to feel a part of this Club from the minute I arrived and everyone was just so welcoming,” Gagai added.
“I don’t think I could have left the boys to be honest and I like where the Club is going and I want to continue to be apart of it.”
The outside back primarily played on the wing and fullback before joining the Knights but has arguably played his best football in the centres since making the switch.
“I am not getting too far ahead, but I want to win a premiership with this Club,” Gagai admits.
“I want Newcastle to be proud of us as a team and if we could win a premiership, that would be the ultimate.”
