New Canterbury boss Raelene Castle has wasted no time in making her mark at Belmore in securing two of the NRL club’s most promising youngsters to long term deals.
Back-rowers Josh Jackson and Dale Finucane have on Sunday had their contracts with the Bulldogs extended until the end of the 2016 season.
The duo were already contracted to the club until the end of next year.
Succeeding Todd Greenberg, who has joined the NRL as head of football, as Bulldogs chief executive was always going to be a tough ask for the well-credentialled Castle but she has hit the ground running after starting the demanding job four weeks ago.
Jackson, 22, and Finucane, 21, made their debuts for the Bulldogs in 2012 and played in the club’s grand final loss to Melbourne last season.
Castle said they were both players who would take the club forward.
“Both Dale and Josh are great young men who have made significant contributions both on and off the field,” Castle said.
“We’re pleased that we have been able to re-sign them and they can continue to develop as players and as men as a part of the Bulldogs squad.”
Both players said they were happy to have sorted out their long-term futures.
“It’s great that I’ve been able to secure my future beyond next year, Jackson said.
“I’ve done a lot of growing up here and it’s great to know I’ll be here for the next three seasons playing with this great bunch of guys.”
Finucane added: “I’ve managed to fulfil a dream of playing in the NRL. I’ve had a good run so far and my main aim is just to continually play at this level and contribute as best as I can to the team.”
The Bulldogs are yet to find the type of form that propelled them to last season’s decider but remain top eight probables.
Coach Des Hasler welcomed the retention of Jackson and Finucane ahead of the club’s round round 22 clash with Gold Coast at ANZ Stadium on Monday.
“Both Dale and Josh have come through the system here at the club and have been consistent performers since making their debut” Hasler said.
“They are still only young so we’ll continue to help them develop as players and it’s good to know they will be doing it here at the Bulldogs.”
Jackson has played 31 NRL games and debuted for Country this season.
Finucane has played 33 NRL games.
