'Big year for him': Dragons extend monster teen forward Loko Pasifiki Tonga until 2027
St George Illawarra have re-signed one of rugby league's most promising young stars until the end of 2027.
Loko Pasifiki Tonga first joined the Dragons two years ago after dominating at under-age level, representing the Australian Schoolboys during his time in Queensland.
The teenage prop has since gone on to represent the NSW U19s team and helped lead St George to their first SG Ball title in more than three decades.
READ MORE: Kyrgios avoids disaster as Australian Open draw revealed
READ MORE: Shock bolter named in Test squad as Marsh dumped
READ MORE: Carlton boss left fuming after 'outrageous' lewd photo hack
Pasifiki Tonga made the jump to reserve grade in late-2024 and is expected to push for a first grade debut this season under Shane Flanagan after inking a two-year extension.
Loko Pasifiki Tonga in action. NRL Images
"We're really excited to have locked Loko down for two more years," the coach said.
"He's big and mobile but he also does all the little things well. He's got a good attitude; he trains hard and he's a very focused individual. 2025 will be a big year for him."
Should he debut in the Red V this season, Pasifiki Tonga would be among the biggest players in the NRL, standing at 196cm tall and weighing 121kg.
Despite his size, the front-rower has shown enormous skill and fitness through his formative years and will add much-needed punch to the Dragons forward pack.
His extension comes after the club re-signed Toby and Ryan Couchman in December.
