NRL 2022: Justin Matamua elevation underlines the massive changes as Tim Sheens cranks up training

Justin Matamua’s sudden elevation is further evidence that the dawn of new era under Tim Sheens is gathering momentum as the Wests Tigers undergo a massive transformation.

David Nofoaluma settles into training back at Concord. Picture: Wests Tigers

A new era at the Wests Tigers is taking shape under Tim Sheens after Justin Matamua, one of the club’s best teenage prospects, was fast-tracked into the top 30 on Wednesday.

Matamua has enjoyed a meteoric rise to his NRL deal.

In just one season, the talented backrower has gone from captaining the Wests Magpies’ SG Ball team to making his NRL debut in round 17 against Parramatta in July.

Matamua’s rapid ascension through the club’s pathways program was initially rewarded with a two-year deal in February, which included a development contract for 2023.

Justin Matamua represents the long-term future at West Tigers. Picture: Jason McCawley/Getty Images

But the local junior, who in the eyes of many is a pin-up for the club’s pathways, has been moved immediately into the top 30 and locked in at Concord until the end of season 2025.

The under-19’s NSW Blues star is part of a crop of teenagers coming through the ranks at the Tigers that are viewed as the cornerstone in the joint venture’s long-term revival.

Coach Tim Sheens says Matamua was proof the club’s investment in junior developments was paying dividends.

“Justin has made the most of his opportunities on the back of hard work and dedication,” Sheens said.

“He has moved swiftly through our representative teams, playing Harold Matthews (U/17s) only a year or two ago.

“It shows that our development plans are working well. I look forward to coaching Justin over the next couple of years.”

The contract upgrade puts Matamua firmly in the equation for round one selection next season.

Backrow stocks had taken a hit after the departures of Kelma Tuilagi, Luke Garner and Luciano Leilua.

Justin Matamua is a long-term prospect for the Wests Tigers. Picture: Wests Tigers Media

New recruit Isaiah Papali’i and Shawn Blore are likely to get the nod for round one, and John Bateman would be a walk-up start if the club can land the Englishman.

While the versatile Matamua can cover in the backrow, he has his eyes set on playing in the middle.

Back in July, lock forward Joe Ofahengaue revealed Matamua was already making his presence felt at training.

“Young Justin is coming for my spot and that puts pressure on me,” Ofahengaue said.

“That’s what you want in a group. I’ve been a part of a team that did that for each other. When I was at [Brisbane], we went all the way to a grand final because of that. We were all competing.

“Our Cup team during training sessions, it was like we were playing a full game against each other. We just wanted each other’s spots. It’ll test your character.

“He’s a really good kid, a skilful footballer. All the boys in the middle are going to do their best to look after him.”

Matamua said he backed the long-term vision at the club.

“Making my NRL debut was a dream come true and being added to the top squad is another special moment,” Matamua said.

“Right now, I’m just looking forward to next season but it’s great to know I’m here long term.”

Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe said Matamua had worked hard to earn the contract extension.

“Justin has really applied himself over the past few years and it’s been a pleasure to watch his progression,” Pascoe said.

“It’s wonderful that he’s with us for at least the next three seasons.”

The braided rats tail which has Tigers fans on their toes

It‘s a sight for sore Wests Tigers’ eyes, braided rats tail and all.

David Klemmer has reported to Concord for his official first day of Tigers pre-season training on Monday.

Klemmer was released from the final year of his contract with Newcastle to join the Tigers via a swap with playmaker Jackson Hastings.

After protracted negotiations between the parties, the former NSW Blues prop agreed to join the Tigers on a three-year deal with a mutual option in the fourth season.

Winger David Nofoaluma settles into training back at Concord. Picture: Wests Tigers

Seeing Klemmer on the training paddock for the first time is sure to excite long-suffering Tigers fans.

Klemmer is poised to lead a revamped forward pack in 2023, which will include recruits Isaiah Papali’i and three-time premiership-winning hooker Api Koroisau.

Landing the signature of former Raiders backrower John Bateman will only add aggression to a Tigers pack that has lacked mongrel and punch in recent seasons.

David Klemmer has reported to Concord for his first official pre-season training session.

Klemmer is poised to lead a revamped forward pack in 2023. Pictures: Wests Tigers

It was also the first day back for winger David Nofoaluma, who joined competition heavyweight Melbourne on a loan deal back in late July.

There was some initial speculation that Nofoaluma could remain at the Storm but the 28-year-old has returned to Concord to fulfil the final three years of his contract which ends in 2025.

New coach Tim Sheens was not wasting any time in getting his troops back to work after the club slumped to its first ever wooden spoon. The Tigers have been back on the training field since November 1.

Former Penrith winger Charlie Staines and utility Will Smith have also commenced training with the squad.

Originally published as NRL 2022: Justin Matamua elevation underlines the massive changes as Tim Sheens cranks up training