Palasia to stay at Leeds

Leeds Rhinos have been given a huge boost ahead of the new Betfred Super League season with the news that forward Keenan Palasia, 28, has agreed a new three year contract extension with the club keeping him at AMT Headingley until at least the end of the 2029 Betfred Super League season.

The extension comes ahead of the new campaign and reflects both Palasia’s impact since arriving at the club and his commitment to the Rhinos’ long-term ambitions.

Palasia, who joined Leeds last year from the NRL, says getting the deal done early was a priority.

“I’m really pleased to get it all sorted before the season starts,” said Palasia. “That was the main thing for me – to get it done so I can fully focus on my footy, put my best foot forward and hopefully help this club win some silverware.”

Since making the move to Super League, the powerful forward has quickly settled both on and off the field, crediting the club environment and playing group for making the transition seamless.

“The boys have made it really easy to transition over here, not just into the team but also life away from rugby league,” he added. “It’s a credit to the club – we don’t just sign good players, we sign good people. That’s the kind of club I want to be a part of for a long time.”

The new deal marks a significant milestone for Palasia, who has rediscovered his best form and enjoyment for the game since arriving in Leeds.

"Coming off the back of a tough final season in the NRL, coming over here and finding my form again has been massive for me,” he said. “I can thank the coaching staff and the team around me for that. The success of the team has rubbed off on me and now it’s about carrying that through over the next few years.”

With Leeds making major strides last season, Palasia is clear about the club’s ambitions moving forward.

“Every professional athlete wants to win competitions,” he said. “We want to challenge for silverware – starting with the Challenge Cup, then pushing for the league and the Super League.”

Palasia also paid tribute to the Rhinos supporters, whose backing at AMT Headingley and on the road has made a lasting impression.

“There is no game without the fans,” he added. “Having them behind us, especially at AMT Headingley, gives you that extra lift and I really appreciate their support."

Sporting Director Ian Blease added: “We are delighted that Keenan has committed his long term future to the club. He was a Grand Finalist with Brisbane in the NRL just a few years ago and I think it speaks volumes for how well he has settled in here at the Rhinos that he sees his future with us and in the Super League competition."

Head Coach Brad Arthur also added: “Keenan is very much appreciated by his team mates for the qualities he brings to our group. He has entered a new stage of his career in the last two years and really matured into a dependable player who puts his team first. The good news for the Rhinos is that there is even more he can still strive and I know he is hungry to do that in the coming years with this group of players.”