TRBOJEVIC INKS THREE-YEAR SUPERMAX EXTENSION, DONATES $3M TO CHARITY
Manly Sea Eagles captain Tom Trbojevic has silenced speculation over his future with a landmark three-year supermax contract extension – and marked the occasion with a historic $3 million donation to charity, in a move that cements his legacy as both a rugby league great and community leader.
The star fullback, who took over the captaincy from Daly Cherry-Evans following his departure to the Sydney Roosters in late November 2025, will now remain in maroon and white until the end of 2029, ending fears of a shock switch to the Super League that had been “seriously on the cards” just weeks prior, according to reports.
Coach Anthony Seibold hailed the deal as a “defining moment” for the club, which had faced criticism for its earlier contract handling of the local hero. “Tommy embodies everything we stand for at Manly – talent, heart and a deep commitment to this community,” Seibold said. “Naming him captain was a no-brainer, and locking him in long-term ensures our future is in the hands of one of the game’s all-time greats.”
Trbojevic, 29, revealed the $3 million donation will be distributed across a range of causes close to his heart, including youth sports programs, mental health initiatives and regional community support services. “Footy has given me so much – this is my way of giving back to the people who’ve stood by me through everything,” he said. “I want to help create opportunities for the next generation and support those who need it most.”
The extension caps a remarkable rise for the Mona Vale product, who made his NRL debut in 2015 and has since etched his name into Manly folklore. His standout achievements include claiming the 2021 Dally M Medal, three Roy Bull Best & Fairest awards (2016, 2021, 2024), setting the club’s single-season try-scoring record with 28 tries in 2021, and being named RLPA Players’ Champion. On the representative stage, he has earned multiple State of Origin caps for New South Wales – including the Wally Lewis Medal – and represented Australia seven times, winning the 2024 Rugby League Pacific Championship.
Despite battling persistent injury setbacks throughout his career, Trbojevic enters the 2026 season with unwavering focus on delivering Manly’s first premiership since 2011. “This contract isn’t just about me – it’s about bringing success back to this club,” he said. “With our new leadership group alongside me, I know we have what it takes to go all the way.”
The sea eagles have already confirmed a seven-player leadership group for 2026, including Trbojevic’s brother Jake as vice-captain, as they begin pre-season preparations with renewed optimism.