LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Wests Tigers have awarded Blake Van Drie and Siotame Havea Jr. with their first NRL contracts as recognition for their hard work in the club's junior pathways system, effective for the 2027 season.
Havea will be placed on the club's development list for 2027, while Van Drie has received a train-and-trial contract, which allows him to be eligible for selection starting from Round 11.
Van Drie stood out this season as a lock forward for the Balmain Tigers in the Under-19s SG Ball Cup, earning the title of Balmain's Player of the Year due to his impressive performance.
On the other hand, Havea Jr. served as captain for the Western Suburbs Magpies in the Under-17s Harold Matthews Cup, showcasing his strength both defensively and offensively within the forward pack.
"These players have been rewarded for what they've done across Harold Matthews, SG Ball and Jersey Flegg - it speaks volumes for the work currently being done within the Pathways," stated Matthew Betsey, Wests Tigers Head of Football.
"We want to keep seeing talent grow and develop across these sides and provide players with opportunities to progress and have greater involvement with the NRL squad.
"The boys have shown not just their talent and potential, but the characteristics and values we feel will assist them on their journey towards the NRL."