nib Newcastle Knights Captain Kalyn Ponga has signed a new five-year contract, securing his future with the Club until at least the end of 2027.
Ponga joined the Knights in 2018 as an exciting 19-year-old, on a four-year deal. The club identified his unique talent and bright prospects, possessing skills and maturity beyond his young age.
'I'm honoured and humbled': KP addresses the team
After 76 Knights NRL games, 35 tries and countless magic moments, Ponga has quickly established himself as a marquee player and genuine game breaker, who now leads the Knights into battle as Captain.
During this time, Ponga has gone on to represent the Queensland Maroons in State of Origin four times and Māori All Stars twice.
nib Newcastle Knights and Wests Group CEO Philip Gardner highlighted the significance of the new deal.
“Kalyn is a quality person with great family values,” Gardner said.
“We are delighted to secure his future and look forward to watching him lead this club for a very long time.
“This signature adds to the forward momentum we are building, giving loyal Knights members and the local community another reason to be excited.
“Kalyn sees the vision and direction we have committed to take for the club. He agrees we have the right coach, appreciates the exciting new facilities, and wants to succeed with the Newcastle Knights.
“I want to personally thank Kalyn, and his father Andre, for the respectful manner and professional approach they have applied throughout negotiations.”
Ponga expressed his excitement with the news and the certainty this new five-year contract delivers.
“I would like to thank everyone who has helped throughout this process,” Ponga said.
“I’m grateful for the huge amount of time and hard work it has taken to get this new five-year deal completed, especially my family and key people from the club.
“My teammates have been awesome, they have shown me every respect and patience, without any pressure throughout the negotiations.
“We are a very connected group and I am confident there are great things ahead for us.
“It has taken a long time to get to get to this position, I have always said big decisions like these should not be rushed and we have taken the necessary time required.
“There has been a lot of reporting and opinions throughout the last few weeks, which I understand completely, and respect is a part of the game.
“I would like to thank all of those who have given me the respect of allowing me the space and time I needed to come to this decision – I am excited to have it done and now I can get on with contributing to the club and city that I love.”
This new deal will commence for the 2023 season, replacing all existing options and clauses from the current contract.
