‘Exceptionally talented’: Paul Alamoti earns contract extension after premiership success with Penrith

Paul Alamoti’s gamble to move to Penrith has paid off big time with the young gun rewarded with a new deal on the back of a breakout year.

Panthers premiership star Paul Alamoti has capped off an incredible year by signing a new deal that will keep him in Penrith until the end of the 2027 season.

It’s been a crazy 12 months for Alamoti who was once tipped to be the next big thing at the Bulldogs, only for the local junior to leave after one season to link up with the champions where he was promised nothing.

He had to bide his time in reserve grade but he seized his opportunity when he got it, with Alamoti overcoming an arm injury to return on the eve of the finals where he excelled with a double in the preliminary final.

Alamoti then dominated in the decider with a try and some huge plays after shifting from centre to the wing to replace the injured Brian To’o, with the young gun glad he made the big call to head west.

Paul Alamoti scored a crucial try in Penrith’s grand final win over the Storm. Picture: Izhar Khan / AFP

“I don’t live in the past. Everything happens for a reason,” he said in the sheds after the grand final.

“If it wasn’t for that (me leaving) then I wouldn’t be here. God gave me another path in life and I made the right decision.

“This represents so much hard work and sacrifice.

“When I look back, it’s been a long journey. But I’m fortunate that I won a premiership at 20 years old. It’s pretty incredible and remarkable. It’s a crazy journey, but it’s all worth it.”

Alamoti scored eight tries in 16 games for Penrith this season and was rewarded with a spot in the Tongan side for the Pacific Cup which saw him make his debut against Australia last week.

His form throughout the year earned him a contract extension, with the Panthers excited to see what he can produce as he spends more time in their system.

“We’re pleased to have Paul commit to Panthers until the end of 2027,” Panthers general manager of football Shane Elford said.

“Paul is an exceptionally talented and respectful young man, both on and off the field.

“He has taken every opportunity presented to him, and we are excited to see what the future holds for him with the Panthers.”

Maika Sivo won’t be at the Eels next year after he was granted an early release from his deal. Picture: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

The news comes just hours after the Eels confirmed try-scoring machine Maika Sivo wouldn’t be at the club next year, with the Fijian star expected to sign with Leeds in the Super League.

“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Maika, his partner Korina, and his family for their time with us,” Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill said.

“We wish them all the very best in their future endeavours, both in rugby league and beyond.“

Originally published as ‘Exceptionally talented’: Paul Alamoti earns contract extension after premiership success with Penrith