Gallen locked in at Sharks

Test forward Paul Gallen looks set to see out his playing days with Cronulla after signing a deal to keep him at the club until 2013.

Gallen has agreed to re-sign with the Sharks – the club he joined as a 19-year-old in 2001 and has remained with ever since.

Sharks CEO, Richard Fisk, said Paul’s decision was a massive show of loyalty to the club, its tradition and the area.

“I’m aware that Paul was being pursued by three other clubs and it’s extremely pleasing that he has placed the Sharks above the chase of the dollar,” Fisk said.

“This is a positive sign for every junior in the Sutherland Shire that the Sharks have a strong future, and loyalty has its very own special rewards.”

Sharks Chairman, Damian Irvine, said he is thrilled with Gallen’s decision and says the extension is a real indicator of how far the Club has come.

“The Sharks are entering a new watershed period and the contract extension is a clear reflection on the changing direction of the Club,” Irvine said.

“We have a group of talented youngsters here and a player like Paul is an ideal leader to help them develop into future stars.”

Cronulla suffered a turbulent 2009 with financial difficulties, off-field incidents and boardroom controversies all clouding the club.

They kick off their NRL campaign against reigning premiers Melbourne Storm on Saturday night.