The Sharks are delighted to announce that superstar playmaker Emma Tonegato will remain at the club until at least the end of 2026 after inking a two-year extension.
Already contracted for the upcoming season, the 2021 Dally M Medal winner is grateful to have secured her long-term future after becoming the club's first marquee NRLW signing last year.
A Sky Blues and Jillaroos representative, as well as a 2016 Olympic gold medallist in rugby sevens, the classy Tonegato is one of the game's most exciting and high-profile players.
The 28-year-old featured in all nine matches of Cronulla's inaugural NRLW campaign in 2023.
"It's a great re-signing for the club. Emma made the transition from fullback to five-eighth last season and had an exceptional year,” coach Tony Herman said.
“She'll only get better into this season, so we're thrilled to have her as part of the club moving forward. We're looking forward to what she'll do in 2024.”
Tonegato described the new deal as "such an honour", highlighting the opportunity to play alongside and mentor a promising crop of young players.
"It's been great to debut for the Sharks and the first season was really special to me. I'm excited to continue that legacy," Tonegato said.
"Being a female in sport, we've always had such short-term contracts. It's the first time that I've locked in my future for a few years and I know where I'm going to be.
"Off field, that allows me to plan, know where I'm going to live and know what my income's going to be. It's the first time I've ever been in that position. It's really nice and I'm hoping that will translate to a stress-free on-field performance."
With Tonegato locked in and more announcements coming shortly, the outlook is bright at the Sharks.
"We have such a strong background of rugby league in the area. What's really exciting for me is to know that I'll be there to see those girls come through and be able to help them," Tonegato added.
"Hopefully, I can guide them and have an influence on their careers."
Not just a standout on the park, Tonegato doubles as the Sharks' Equal Access Program Lead; a role in which she manages and executes initiatives within the disability inclusion space.
"It's just a really cool feeling to know that you're backed by the club and supported," Tonegato said.
"They support my passion off field in disability and community. I want to work for them and give back to them just as much as they support me.
"My first Sharks NRLW game jersey is one of my most special jerseys. When I got that at the end of last season, that was a really special moment. It made me realise how much I value this club and being part of the inaugural team.
"To extend that journey is really exciting."
