Hull KR tie down exciting youngster as they look ahead to 2024 and beyond

The 19-year-old, whose current contract expires at the end of this season, has signed a two-year extension until 2025.

Laulu-Togaga’e – son of Quentin – linked up with the Robins in late 2021 following a successful spell with Keighley Cougars that ended with the teenager winning the League 1 Young Player of the Year award.

The Brisbane-born speedster featured seven times for Rovers last season, underlining his versatility with stints at hooker, in the halves and on the wing. He also gained experience during loan spells with Dewsbury Rams and Rochdale Hornets.

"I’m very happy with it," said Laulu-Togaga’e. "It shows that Willie (Peters) is pretty happy with what he’s seen so far from me.

"Coming into this professional environment just over a year ago has helped me develop massively already.

"This year, pre-season has been really challenging in a good way. I’ve learned more than I’ve ever learned in such a small amount of time.

"It’s definitely stepped up from last year. The higher intensity has helped me and the boys a lot, not only skill wise but fitness wise, too, I think.

"As a young player I try to soak up as much as I can from the experienced boys. Having players like Cootie (Lachlan Coote) around me in my position and coaches who have played in the halves like Willie and Danny (McGuire) is great. I’m excited for what the future holds."

New Hull KR boss Peters will use the trial games against Featherstone Rovers and Leeds Rhinos to take a look at the youngster in match situations. He has been encouraged by what he has seen so far.

"He’ll get an opportunity in the pre-season friendlies at full-back and in the halves," said Peters.

"The beauty of Phoenix is he can play anywhere in the spine, which is exciting.

"Already, Phoenix has improved in such a small space of time since we started pre-season and we’re delighted to reward that effort with a new deal.

"He has high expectations of himself and where he wants to go in his career, and we see ourselves as the right fit to help him get to where he wants to be."