Towering prop Tom Hazelton has shown his loyalty to the Sharks by knocking back interest elsewhere to sign a new three-year contract.
Despite being pursued by a host of rival teams, Hazelton always wanted to stay at the club where he made his first-grade debut in 2022.
The 26-year-old will remain at Cronulla until at least the end of 2028, having played 45 matches in black, white and blue to date.
With a happy knack for scoring tries, including 10 over the past two seasons, the fan favourite will continue to fill an important role in a powerful forward pack.
"We're building something really special," Hazelton said.
"I'm over the moon to be re-signing. I've got a really good group of mates here. I've been here for seven years and seen the club progress so far in that time.
"I think we have a few really good years coming up. To be part of that is really exciting and I'm very glad to be staying.
"We have a great forward pack and no matter what my role is in the team I just want to be someone who the boys can rely on."
Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney said: "It's a great result that Tom has decided to extend his journey at the club.
"Tom has established himself as one of the NRL's most exciting front-rowers over the past 18 months and is ready to take the next step in his career towards representative honours.
"He is a down-to-earth country boy who is deeply respected by his teammates and coaches. We're excited about what we can achieve together."
After being spotted by Sharks Immortal Gavin Miller as a youngster in Goulburn, Hazelton earned an opportunity in Cronulla's 2018 Jersey Flegg squad.
NRL success was a slow burn for Hazelton – who was also a representative soccer player in his youth – as the COVID-19 pandemic limited his game-time and development.
But his persistence paid dividends when he was handed his top-grade debut by coach Craig Fitzgibbon against the Roosters in Round 12, 2022. Hazelton played 18 matches the following season and has been a mainstay ever since.
He came off the bench in the Sharks' 2025 season-opener against Penrith in Las Vegas, recording 65 metres, seven runs and 28 tackles at Allegiant Stadium.
