St. George Illawarra Dragons outside back Nathan Lawson will continue playing for the Red-V until the end of 2026.
This comes after just one first-grade appearance, which triggered a clause in the 26-year-old's contract which automatically extended his stay with the club.
Lawson's debut against the Newcastle Knights in Round 13 was anything but tentative. The former Rugby Sevens Olympian ran for 180 metres and made a line break.
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Lawson originally signed a development contract with the Dragons, but as revealed by Code Sports, a clause in his agreement guaranteed an extension for 2026 once he played an NRL game.
"It kind of gave the club and myself a bit of security," he said.
"For them it was a case of if it didn’t work out, and me, if I didn’t enjoy it or it didn’t work out."
Despite being a newcomer to the 13-man code, Lawson's early signs point to being a natural fit in the league environment.
"I had never tried rugby league. My pre-season trial match I had against the Roosters was my first ever game," he said.
"I love the club and I want to stick around and see where I can go with the club."
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With one game under his belt, Lawson's rise into the professional rugby league ranks seems to be paying-off as a successful gamble by the Dragons.
With Christian Tuipulotu and Mat Feagai currently sidelined with lower-body injuries, Lawson has a chance to cement his spot on one flank for the Red-V.