LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a proactive move for the future, the Canberra Raiders have reportedly initiated discussions to extend the contract of their promising young forward, Ata Mariota.
Hailing from Samoa, Mariota has made a significant impact on the Green Machine over the last two seasons. He has established himself as a consistent player off the interchange bench, emerging as a crucial component of the team's forward pack moving forward.
At just 23 years old, Mariota has already accrued 66 appearances since his debut in 2022. He is currently the leading candidate to succeed Josh Papalii in the front row when Papalii decides to retire.
As of November 1, Mariota is eligible to negotiate with rival teams. According to The Canberra Times, the Raiders have begun talks with his management, aiming to secure him with a three-year contract extension.
This initiative follows a statement from CEO Don Furner in July, stating that the club intended to meet with Mariota's management regarding his future. However, discussions were delayed as Mariota switched player managers.
"I feel comfortable here knowing Ricky has my back and believes in me. The playing group look after me and I'm looking forward to building on last season," Mariota expressed in 2023 after his most recent contract extension.
He also noted, "There are heaps of young guys coming through the system and it pushes me to be better."