The Wests Tigers have moved to lock in three of their brightest emerging prospects, with Tino Tavana, Blake Van Drie and Siotame Havea Jr. all handed upgraded deals as the club looks to strengthen its pathways to senior football.
The trio’s promotions follow the recent arrivals of Javon Andrews and Ethan Roberts, who are set to join the Concord set-up in 2026, underlining a clear investment in homegrown talent.
Pathways progress rewarded
Head of Football Matthew Betsey said the moves reflect the players’ impact across Harold Matthews, SG Ball and Jersey Flegg competitions.
“These players have been rewarded for what they’ve done across Harold Matthews, SG Ball and Jersey Flegg – it speaks volumes for the work currently being done within our Pathways,” Betsey explained.
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He added: “We want to keep seeing talent grow and develop across these sides and provide players with opportunities to progress and have greater involvement with the NRL squad. The boys have shown not just their talent and potential, but the characteristics and values we feel will assist them on their journey towards the NRL.”
Outside back Tavana, who impressed at fullback in an NRL trial against the Bulldogs earlier this year, has signed a one-year train-and-trial deal for 2026 after shining for both the NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg sides.
Lock forward Van Drie has been secured until the end of 2027, rewarded after a standout Balmain SG Ball campaign in which he was named U19s Player of the Year.
Havea Jr., a Western Suburbs junior and captain of the Harold Matthews Cup side, has also signed through to 2027, with his powerful running and uncompromising defence marking him out as one to watch.