Fijian Flyer Re-signs with Knights

[Jono078]

Knights re-sign Kevin Naiqama




Friday 3 August 2012 4:20 PM

The Newcastle Knights are pleased to announce utility back Kevin Naiqama has re-signed a one-year contract with the Club.
Naiqama joined the Knights in 2008, made his debut in 2010 but only managed to play one NRL game before the 2012 season kicked off.
After a strong pre-season, Naiqama has relished his chance in first grade this season; playing five of his six total NRL games under coach Wayne Bennett.
“I am very happy to get another year at the Knights and to keep playing under Wayne,” Naiqama said after signing his contract on Friday afternoon.
“It has been great getting more opportunities this year, to show what I have got and I am grateful for the faith Wayne has showed in me.
“I look forward to finishing this year on a high note and having an even bigger one next year.”
The 23-year old has earned high praise from coach Wayne Bennett.
“We are really excited Kevin wants to stay with us,” Bennett said.
“He has been quite a find and a real difference in all the games he has played this season.
“He is young and enthusiastic and brings a lot to the team; the future is looking good for him.”
Naiqama will be in action on the wing this Saturday, when the Newcastle Knights clash with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at Hunter Stadium in Round 22.


http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Knights-resign-Kevin-Naiqama/60838

Woohoo! Interesting only for a year though, perhaps he wanted that to stay on and secure a better contract next year, and also maybe says we want to see what happens with McManus.

You're welcome for the questionable thread title

 

[Yosh]

Only a one year extension? I wonder what McManus is thinking... Good news though.

 

[Jono078]

No doubt he would have collected Joel Edwards' pay.

 

[Johns Magic]

Good stuff.

The whole McManus vs Kev issue will be much much clearer in a year's time so a one-year extension is pretty understandable.

 

[Rolla]

Great news!

Good business from Kev too, a year in First grade will see his value soar.

 

[Johns Magic]

Saw in another article Matt Gidley said that Uate, McManus and Kev will all be off-contract next season.

 

[Jono078]

If we thought wingers were having a great season for us this year, imagine next year when the pressure is on!

 

[Rolla]

We need to extend Aku's contract ASAP... The thought of him going on the open market is a bit scary. McManus will come down to the coin he wants. I doubt he will play for backup money when he could play firstgrade elsewhere.

 

[Big Tim]

A 1 year deal is a good move on both sides.

Only committing to another year means if he plays well, he can push for an upgrade. If he doesnt get a good shot, he is on the open market.

I am assuming Kev and Eddie dont share managers......

 

[Johns Magic]

Pretty sure Eddy and Wes have the same manager. Not sure if that extends to Kev.

 

[Jono078]

I guess Wayne has always been like that and it's mostly worked for him.

It is a tough one though.

 

[otori]

I wonder what Motu Tony would think about that

 

[Yosh]

He doesn't actually answer the question...

 

[shane1970]

I wonder what McManus is thinking...

.
I reckon I could guess - PFFFTTT - Jimmy Mc is by far our 2nd best winger and when available should be selected

 

[Alex28]

So Kev is there for backup in case Aku or Jimmy demand too much cash next contract then. Smart thinking Knights.

Whilst Aku is important, he isn't the be all and end all and if his management demands too much cash we'll survive without him.

 

[RABK]

I think most will be suprised next year when without very little media attention and any prolonged delay Aku resigns for a contract worth about 300-350k a season well below the 400-500k he could earn on the open market.

He ain't going anywhere and he's not going to make much fuss in making that decision.

 

[Apey]

Yeah I can't see Aku leaving but I've had that impression about people before. We'd be doing everything to keep him and I'm not even talking about $$$.

 

[League_God]

Anyone picked up on what bennett thinks of aku?
things he's said in the media, press conferences etc.

 

[Nuffy]

What makes you say that RABK?

If he has the same manager as Eddy then who knows!

I'm not pessimistic about Aku because he does seem to love the place, I just hope it doesn't cost us the world to retain him.

 

[Joker's Wild]

Aku will likely sign for roughly what RABK has said and also be topped up by 3rd parties due to his marketability and cult status in the Hunter. The supporter backlash if he was let go would cost the club far more than a couple of $100K