Elima extends stay at Catalan

Catalan Dragons have confirmed that Olivier Elima has signed a two-year contract extension at the club.

The 31-year-old French international forward should now stay at the Stade Gilbert Brutus until the end of the 2016 campaign.

“I’m really happy to stay at the club for the next two seasons,” said Elima.

“The club is moving forward on and off the field and I’m delighted to be a part of this exciting project.

“A lot of young players will come through in the next seasons with the launch of the Academy team and I’m looking forward to work with them and bring my experience.”

Elima boasts a wealth of Super League experience, having made his Super League debut for Castlefordm before moving to Wakefield Wildcats, and then the Dragons.

His first spell in Perpignan began in 2008, before he moved to Bradford Bulls in 2010. He returned to the Dragons in 2012.

He has played 220 Super League games in total, with 89 of those coming in the colours of the Catalans.

“Olivier is one of the key players in the Catalans pack and I’m really happy to keep him at the club,” said Dragons coach Laurent Frayssinous.

“His experience will be invaluable to the team, especially to all the young players who will join the club.”