LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Departed Manly Sea Eagles winger Raymond Tuaimalo Vaega has secured a new contract that enables him to extend his rugby league career into the upcoming season.
Vaega was one of nine players bid farewell by the Manly Sea Eagles following the conclusion of the 2025 NRL season, joining notable names such as Dean Matterson and Tommy Talau. He has officially signed with the North Sydney Bears for a one-year deal for next season.
Although Vaega did not participate in any first-grade matches this year, the 25-year-old has made a total of 12 appearances in the NRL for the Sea Eagles since his debut against the Canberra Raiders in Round 24 of 2022.
As an aggressive outside back capable of playing both on the wing and in the centres, Vaega aims to secure a starting position at the Bears while striving to regain his prior form.
Additionally, he will take on a mentorship role for the team's younger players, especially as they prepare for the transition away from the Melbourne Storm as a feeder club, given that the Storm will have their own NSW Cup team starting in 2026.