Strike centre KL Iro has put pen to paper on a three-year contract extension, ensuring he'll remain a Shark until at least the end of 2029.
Iro, who was already signed for next year, has lit up the left edge since becoming an NRL regular last season, building a record that includes 16 tries in 35 NRL matches.
The 25-year-old's story is one of persistence and patience, having knocked down the door through the NSW Cup after playing a solitary game for Cronulla in 2022.
The Cook Islands international has met every challenge after earning another top-grade opportunity in Round 4, 2024, cementing himself as an attacking weapon and a defensive rock.
Despite a pectoral injury limiting him to 11 appearances so far this season, Iro has bagged 10 tries and proven to be one of the competition's premier outside backs.
"Four years ago I was close to giving up footy, so to sign this contract is massive," Iro said.
"I was reflecting on it when I signed. If I stayed back in the Islands, I don't know what I'd be doing … Being here now and calling this home for another four years is massive for me.
"This club gave me an opportunity when no one else would. I just love the boys, love the club, love the community and love the area as well. It's amazing.
"Fitzy (coach Craig Fitzgibbon) has been huge for me," Iro added.
"He's developed me into the player I've become now. I think I've got a lot of levels to go. The club has instilled a lot of trust in me and I've got to give that back now.
"The more I play, the more my goals grow and the better I want to get."
The Sharks Football Committee identified Iro as a key member of the team and his retention crucial to future success, with General Manager Football Darren Mooney confident he has the scope to continue his rise in the seasons ahead.
"KL is an extremely impressive individual on and off the field," Mooney said.
"His consistency and impact reflect the level of work he puts in at training. He's an integral part of our squad and is only 35 games into his NRL journey.
"We know he'll only get better and we're excited to watch him excel in black, white and blue for years to come."
Iro will be a key figure as the Sharks host the Roosters in an elimination final on Saturday night.
