North Queensland co-captain Reuben Cotter has signed a brand new three-year extension which can preserve him in Townsville till the top of 2028.
The 25-year-old Queensland and Australian star was already signed till the top of subsequent yr however the Cowboys have swooped to maintain the feisty ahead away from any potential suitors.
Cotter, who received the Wally Lewis Medal as State of Origin participant of the sequence in 2023, joined the Cowboys academy as a 15-year-old whereas residing in Mackay.
The re-signing of such a pivotal participant is a lift for the membership forward of Saturday evening’s away conflict with Canterbury. Each side are on 34 factors with the Bulldogs in fifth on for and towards.
The winner will end fifth and host an elimination semi-final whereas the loser shall be counting on Manly getting overwhelmed to Cronulla on Sunday with the intention to keep sixth and likewise host a ultimate.
The Cowboys beat an understrength Melbourne 38-30 final week however should be higher towards the Canines.
“The apparent factor to work on is our angle defensively,” Cotter mentioned.
“We get that proper and we’re going to be a harmful staff. They’ve a robust staff and it isn’t a straightforward feat enjoying down there so we have to flip up with the proper intent.”
Winger Murray Taulagi mentioned Cotter “epitomises what it means to be a Cowboy, not solely on the sector however off it as properly”.
“You need that man to be in your staff. You do not wish to play towards him. I’m very lucky to come back up via the ranks with him,” Taulagi mentioned.
“Now we have represented in Origin and for Australia collectively. No matter jersey he places on he offers it 100 per cent and for him to be our captain till 2028 … we’re very fortunate.”
Cotter was by no means going to go away.
“It was a no brainer for myself and my household,” Cotter mentioned.
“My spouse is from the Burdekin and I’m from Mackay so it made sense for me to remain right here and I’m very excited to increase with the membership.
“I’m extraordinarily grateful for what has occurred the final couple of years particularly after what occurred (with accidents) initially of my profession.
“I’m excited for what we’re constructing. I really like enjoying alongside this group and what we’re working in direction of … clearly a premiership.”
Cotter wasn’t blessed with pure presents as a footballer however his dedication and selflessness has made him a participant all his colleagues wish to run out alongside.
“I by no means had a lot ability. Rising up I used to be all the time a employee and that’s one thing I all the time wished to construct my sport round coming via the ranks,” he mentioned.
