LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
'They're on the right path': Sunia Turuva talks about joining the Wests Tigers, chasing one last win with the Panthers
Panthers winger Sunia Turuva had the option to stick around at the foot of the mountains and go after more championships, but instead, he's made the leap to Tiger Town where he believes something special is brewing.
The news from news.com.au reveals that Turuva, last year's Dally M Rookie of the Year, has shed some light on his decision to sign with the Wests Tigers for the 2025 season.
Childhood hero Benji Marshall played a pivotal role in convincing him to join the Tigers, despite the Dragons initially looking like the frontrunners to acquire his services.
Joining premiership-winning players Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris, Turuva is the latest addition to a batch of Penrith players who have left the club.
After prolonged negotiations, the Fijian star put pen to paper with the Tigers at the end of last month, with Panthers coach Ivan Cleary giving him a night off in Townsville to recover from the emotional strain of the decision-making process.
"It was a bit drawn out, but I think Ivan knew what was best for me.
I'm grateful for the break and happy to be back on the field," Turuva explained.
The winger's move to the Tigers was solidified just a week after he notched up two tries against them in Bathurst.
Turuva has been impressed by the Tigers' progress this season after enduring consecutive wooden spoons, indicating a sense of optimism for the future with his new team.