Hull KR reward hot prospect Phoenix Laulu-Togaga’e with long-term deal

Hull KR have tied down rising star Phoenix Laulu-Togaga’e to a new deal that will see him remain at Craven Park until at least the end of 2025.

The 19-year-old has made seven first team appearances for the Robins since arriving in 2021 from Keighley, where he played alongside his dad Quentin.

Laulu-Togaga’e is a highly-rated youngster in the game, being able to play full-back, hooker and half-back.

Hull KR coach Willie Peters said: “Phoenix is only 19 and he was identified early on as a player we want to retain.

“It’s exciting for the club that he’s resigned for a further two years so he can continue his development with us during his formative years.

“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.

“This is only his (PLT) second year in a full-time environment. We hope to continue to see him develop and mature in those surroundings for the next two years and beyond.”

Phoenix Laulu-Togaga’e excited for what the future holds

The Brisbane-born back spent time in the academy at Leicester Tigers Rugby Union when he was younger before switching to rugby league.

Laulu-Togaga’e says he is excited for what the future holds after signing a new deal with Hull KR.

He said: “I’m very happy with it. It shows that Willie 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 (Peters) and Danny (McGuire) is great. I’m excited for what the future holds.”

A chance to impress

Peters says he is looking forward to seeing what Laulu-Togaga’e can do in their pre-season friendlies against Featherstone and Leeds.

Peters said: “He’ll get an opportunity in the pre-season friendlies at full-back and in the halves. The beauty of Phoenix is he can play anywhere in the spine, which is exciting.

“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.”

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