Since joining the Eels 12 months ago as a rookie, Iongi has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting emerging players in the game, impressing with his speed, footwork, and maturity beyond his years.
Iongi expressed his gratitude after putting pen to paper.
“This past year has been surreal, I came to Parramatta for an opportunity and now it’s become home. I’ve built a great connection with Jason Ryles, the coaching staff, my teammates, and everyone at the Club, and I’m grateful for the faith they’ve shown in me. The incredible support from our fans has made my journey even more special.
“We’ve grown so much as a team over the past year, and I can’t wait to keep building our future together at this Club,” said Iongi.
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill said the club is thrilled to lock Iongi in long term.
“Isaiah has developed into an important member of the team and has settled into the club and our environment very well since he arrived last year. His performances in 2025 have made him popular not only with the playing group but also amongst our members and fans.
With his positive mindset, strong work ethic and desire to improve, we see him as a long-term leader at the Eels. Jason, the coaches and the rest of the club are incredibly excited to see him continue to evolve over the coming years,” said O’Neill.
Iongi finished the year with eight tries, 12 try assists, and averaged more than four tackle busts per game. His strong form also earned him representative honours, playing for Tonga in the Pacific Championships. He was awarded the Parramatta Eels Rookie of the Year at the Ken Thornett Medal Presentation, and he cemented himself as a fan favourite by claiming the Blue & Gold Army NRL Player of the Year.
Replies
Yes, unlike the previous people who were here.
He will only get better, once he finds his voice he will become elite. Reminds me alot of RTS in both build and the way he moves, one of the most fluid players with a ball in hand.
Thats 3/4 spine players locked in long term. Once the 6 is settled it will be a killer spine.
Let's hope Lorenzo and Fletcher kick on into first grade.
I'm surprised he signed this early. 1) he could play Origin at some point in next few seasons particularly with Walsh getting injuries a bit and Ponga could leave the code. 2) New TV deal around the corner where money goes up too.
He has related us in the faith we gave him. That's a player we want at the club.
I think some underestimated the importance of that player survey as mentioned in the other blog. This is where having the right kind of environment comes in handy - once players are here they just want to stay.
Adam, Some of us poked our nose at it and made fun out of it, but CEOs, Matt Cameron and Jim Sarantinos, don't. They know the environment matters.
Small steps, we're getting there gradually. I reckon this sort of thing is contagious, like Iongi has committed long term it won't be long before others follow suit or at least want in.
Think he's just really comfortable at the club and has finally broken into the nrl. Seems happy to be an eel so probably an easy call for him. Doesn't seem like he wants to stuff around with contract disputes or anything like that.
Tells me LB, he got a huuuuge upgrade. Right now , the players are firmly in the driver's seat to get Santa Clause contract offers from us as we have bags of cash and nowhere to spend it.
Exactly and I reckon he signed a while ago - MON wheeled this out now as his arse cheeks were beginning to part.
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