NRL Rookie of the Year recognition capped Ethan Sanders' first full season with Canberra in 2026, after he joined the Raiders the previous year.
The club has extended the halfback's contract by one season, keeping him in Canberra through to the end of 2028.
Sanders made his Raiders debut in round 13 of 2025 against the Roosters, helping his side come back to win 26-24.
He said re-signing was an easy choice after the club backed him.
"Two years ago, the club put a lot of faith in me to bring me down to Canberra. I can't thank Ricky enough for all the belief he's given me, and I just want to repay that now," Sanders said.
Sanders said the Rookie of the Year award surprised him, and credited his teammates for helping him through his debut season.
"I was honestly just happy to be at the Dally M's and rub shoulders with some of the best in the game. To win the Rookie of the Year was a huge surprise but it's a testament to the players I have around me," Sanders said.
Canberra recruitment manager Chris Hutchison said Sanders' 2026 performances and leadership in memorable victories impressed the club.
"Ethan had a great 2026 season, and we were impressed with the way he was able to lead the team to some memorable wins," Hutchison said,
Ethan has shown strong maturity since arriving in 2025 and brought a level of calmness and professionalism to the Raiders."
Hutchison also praised Sanders' kicking, saying it helped put the Raiders in strong field positions.
"Ethan's long range kicking ability is a real highlight of his game and he was able to put us in some great positions on the field," Hutchison added.
Sanders and Ethan Strange have developed a strong halves partnership, with the club expecting the pair to build on it from 2027.