NRL NEWS: Fullback Connor Tracey Breaks Silence After Inking New Two-Year Contract
NRL star Connor Tracey has finally broken his silence following the announcement of his new two-year contract extension with the Cronulla Sharks, reaffirming his commitment to the club for the next stage of his career. The talented fullback, whose versatility and speed have made him a fan favorite, expressed his excitement and determination to continue building on his progress with the Sharks after securing his future at the club.
A Long-Term Commitment
Connor Tracey, 25, has been a standout player for the Sharks since his arrival in 2020, quickly establishing himself as a key member of the team with his dynamic playstyle. His new two-year deal, which will keep him at the club until the end of the 2026 NRL season, is a testament to his growing importance in the squad. Tracey’s ability to play across multiple positions in the backline has added great value to the Sharks, offering flexibility to coach Craig Fitzgibbon.
In a statement following the announcement, Tracey described his excitement about the new deal and the opportunity to continue his development at Cronulla. “It’s a real honor to commit to this great club for the next few years,” he said. “The Sharks have given me so much, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to the team. I’m excited for what lies ahead and looking forward to building something special with this group of players.”
The two-year extension comes after an impressive 2024 season where Tracey was instrumental in the Sharks’ campaign. Playing primarily as fullback, he showcased his exceptional agility, creating numerous scoring opportunities and solidifying his position as one of the NRL’s brightest young talents.
Fitting Into the Sharks’ Vision
The extension is part of the club’s long-term strategy to retain key players and build a strong core capable of competing for the premiership. Cronulla’s management has praised Tracey’s professionalism and his ability to rise to challenges, both on and off the field. His resilience and work ethic have made him an integral part of the Sharks’ plans for the future.
Sharks CEO, Dino Mezzatesta, expressed his delight at securing Tracey for another two years. “Connor is a crucial part of our squad, and we are thrilled that he has committed his future to the Sharks. His energy, skill, and leadership qualities have been a big asset to the team, and we’re confident that he will continue to play a key role in our success.”
For coach Craig Fitzgibbon, Tracey’s extension represents the club’s ongoing commitment to securing the future of their young stars. “Connor’s versatility is invaluable to us,” Fitzgibbon said. “He’s a player who can step up in various positions, and his development over the past seasons has been fantastic. We’re excited to have him on board for the long term.”
Tracey’s Journey So Far
Since making his NRL debut with the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2017, Connor Tracey has been known for his attacking flair and his fearless approach to the game. His versatility has allowed him to play multiple positions, from fullback to wing, giving coaches flexibility when making tactical decisions. Tracey joined the Sharks in 2020, where he has found his rhythm as a fullback and has been a key player in the backline.
Tracey’s ability to excel in both attack and defense has seen him earn a reputation as one of the NRL’s up-and-coming stars. He has also been recognized for his leadership qualities, often providing a steadying influence on the younger players in the squad.
Looking Ahead
With the new contract in place, Tracey now looks forward to the challenges of the 2025 season and beyond. Cronulla has been on the cusp of greatness in recent years, and the addition of Tracey’s long-term commitment is a crucial step towards achieving sustained success. For Tracey, this contract marks the beginning of the next phase of his career, where he hopes to continue developing as a player and help the Sharks reach the heights of NRL glory.
“I’m really focused on contributing as much as I can to this team,” Tracey said. “We’ve got a talented squad, and I believe in the direction we’re heading. It’s an exciting time to be at Cronulla, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
As the Sharks look to solidify their position as one of the top teams in the NRL, the news of Tracey’s contract extension serves as a statement of intent from the club. With a key player like Connor Tracey secured for the future, Cronulla’s ambitions are firmly set on a successful and competitive future in the NRL.
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