Mitch Barnett has extended his contract for a further three seasons.
The 2019 Danny Buderus medal winner for Player of the Year, Barnett’s new deal keeps him at the Club until at least the end of 2023.
Knights coach Adam O’Brien said; “Mitch represents the Club in every aspect of the way we want to play. He’s tough, reliable and represents the region with pride.
“He’s a good example to our younger players for how to live like a Knight. He trains the way he plays. He adds aggression to our middle but is exceptional in his role on an edge as well.”
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The 25-year-old is a Wingham product and started his career with the Knights before being picked up by Canberra.
Having made his NRL debut with the Raiders in 2015, he returned to the Knights in 2016 and has called the red and blue home ever since.
With 77 NRL games to his name, the hard running, try scoring forward enjoyed a breakout 2019 season.
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“It’s no secret that I’m passionate about this Club,” Barnett said.
“I love the town, my teammates and the passionate supporters. To have my future sorted for at least another three years is something I’m proud of.
“I have plenty of things I want to achieve in the game and I believe that with hard work, I’ll get to where I want to be and where the Club deserves to be.”
Knights CEO, Mr Philip Gardner said the retention of Barnett is a victory for the Club with the forward developing into a leader at the Knights.
“The Club is very proud to have a person like Mitch Barnett,” Mr Gardner said.
“He would’ve played every game for us in 2019, if not for suspension but every game he played, he was amongst our best performers.
“His leadership has grown both on and off the field.
“That leadership, in its continued growth, will make him a very valuable player long-term for the Club.”