Steve Matai will remain a Manly-Warringah Sea Eagle until the end of his playing days after announcing today he will play for the Brookvale club through till the end of the 2017 season.

“Signing a new deal is always a great feeling, but signing on with the same club after all these years is something pretty special,” Matai said.

“There’s been a lot of speculation of late, so to have my future sorted before the start of the season is great. It means my focus can simply go back to ensuring I’m fit and ready for action as soon as possible. The main priority was always my family – my partner Kate and my two little kids. Everything I do is for them. They start school soon, so not having to relocate definitely played a part in the decision too. My goal is always to make them happy. If they’re happy, then I’m happy and I’ve done my job. We’ve got a developed and proud winning culture here at the club which has been established over many years, and I know we’ve got the players, talent and desire to be up there once again.”