TAUMALOLO COUP SETS CLUB UP FOR BRIGHT FUTURE

COWBOYS football manager Peter Parr has full faith Jason Taumalolo will see out his unprecedented 10- year deal, adamant forwards playing well into their 30s will become more commonplace. The club readily admits the lengthy contract, which expires at the end of 2027 comes with risks, especially given the physicality and intent Taumalolo plays with. But Parr said those factors were considered before handing the longest deal in NRL history to the ace in their forward pack. “Paul Gallen’s going to be 36 playing in the NRL this year, he’s a bloke who gives his all every game,” Parr said. “Matt Scott wants to play until at least 34 and does the same, Petero Civoniceva was 36 and Corey Parker 34. “Those guys were playing rep footy well into their 30s and those guys have the added burden of playing Origin footy, and Jason won’t ( as a New Zealander). “We understand how he plays and how dynamic he is, but sports medicinee advances grow every year. “I think you’ll find d in rugby league and in sportt in general that athletes will have more extended careers than they did in the past, or currently have. “We’re comfortablele we gave the decision the due ue diligence it deserved.” ed.” The Cowboys clearlyrly see the reigning Dally M medallist as one of the marqueequee players they can build uild the club around when halfback Johnathan Thurstonn retires, possibly at the end d of next year. Filling the boots of the future Immortal is a major concern for the 2015015 premiers, but the strong forward pack they’re’ re assembling which their next No. 7 will play y behind will certainly ly help. With Taumalolo, Coen Hess and Storm signinggning Jordan McLean alreadyeady on the books for thehe next few years, the e likes of Gavin Cooper, Kyle Feldt and Scott Bolton lton will likely follow suit.uit.