Dragons Deny Release Request for Young Forward

Loko Pasifiki Tonga, a 20-year-old forward for the St George Illawarra Dragons, has formally requested a release from his NRL contract, citing a lack of first-grade opportunities. The club has declined the request.

Formal Request and Club Response

The request for permission to negotiate with other clubs was made by Tonga's agent, Craig Clifton, in correspondence to Dragons CEO Ben Haran and Chief Operating Officer Ben Creagh.

Clifton stated that Tonga's situation at the club had become "untenable" and was "no longer tenable or beneficial for either party."

He argued that Tonga's recent performances in the NSW Cup warranted NRL selection. The St George Illawarra Dragons formally declined the release request.

Player Background and Performance

Tonga played ten NRL games for the Dragons during the 2023 season but has not been selected for the first-grade team in the current campaign.

He returned from a neck injury last month and has since played three games in the NSW Cup, scoring two tries. In his most recent NSW Cup match, he scored a try and ran for over 250 metres.

Agent Cites Contradiction in Club Statements

Following the club's refusal, agent Craig Clifton sent further correspondence. He cited a perceived contradiction between private assurances from the club and public comments made by head coach Shane Flanagan.

Clifton referenced a statement Flanagan made after a recent loss: "If I had someone that was better out of the side, I would put them in, trust me." Clifton stated this public comment contradicted the club's private assurances regarding Tonga's pathway and formally reiterated the demand for immediate permission to negotiate elsewhere.

Related Commentary

The situation has drawn commentary from player management and media regarding the Dragons' retention of junior talent.

• Mat Rogers, whose sports management company represents Tonga, commented on SEN radio. He stated Tonga "doesn't feel like he's being developed" and described him as a "frustrated young man" who believes he deserves an opportunity.
• Journalist Dave Riccio noted that if Tonga were to leave, it would continue a pattern of the club struggling to retain junior talent over the past decade, citing former Dragons juniors like Tyran Wishart, Reuben Garrick, Reece Robson, and Cameron McInnes as examples.

Current Status

Loko Pasifiki Tonga remains under contract with the St George Illawarra Dragons, who have denied his request for a release.