SYDNEY ROOSTERS SECURE SIGNING OF PRODIGY HEAMASI MAKASINI FROM WESTS TIGERS
The Sydney Roosters have pulled off a major coup in the NRL transfer market, securing the services of highly-touted young star Heamasi Makasini from cross-town rivals Wests Tigers. The move, which saw the 18-year-old pulled from the 2025 national schoolboys championships as negotiations reached their final stages, signals the Roosters’ commitment to building for the future with elite junior talent.
Makasini arrives at Bondi Junction with an impressive track record forged through the Wests Tigers’ pathways programs. In 2024, he was named Harold Matthews Cup (U/17s) Player of the Series after a dominant campaign that included 10 tries and 92 points in 10 games, guiding his team to the grand final. He progressed rapidly through the ranks, representing the Tigers at SG Ball Cup (U/19s), Jersey Flegg Cup (U/21s), and NSW Cup levels before earning his spot in the NRL squad.
The outside back made his long-awaited NRL debut at just 18 years old in the final round of the 2025 season, becoming one of the few players to feature in first grade while still attending high school. He marked the occasion with a memorable try, showcasing the power, speed, and agility that have made him one of the most talked-about prospects in the game.
Having previously signed a three-year deal with the Wests Tigers in 2024 – turning down interest from Rugby Australia and other NRL clubs – Makasini was set to join their Top 30 squad in 2026. However, the Roosters moved quickly to secure his services, with club officials describing the signing as a “transformative addition” to their roster as they look to replenish their outside backs stocks following recent departures.
Wests Tigers head coach Benji Marshall, who had previously praised Makasini as “one of the best young talents we have”, expressed disappointment at losing the rising star but acknowledged his potential to reach the top of the sport. Meanwhile, Roosters coach Trent Robinson stated the club was “thrilled to welcome a player of Heamasi’s caliber”, adding that he would be given every opportunity to develop within their system.
