DWZ signs one-year extension with Penrith

Panthers is delighted to announce Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has secured his immediate playing future by signing a one-year extension with the club.

The new deal means the 20-year-old Kiwi will remain with the Panthers until at least the end of 2017.

"It's awesome to have committed to the Panthers for another year," Watene-Zelezniak said.

"There is a lot to look forward to with our current squad, and all the young players coming through, and I'm excited to be a part of it."

While many NRL players pursue long-term contracts with their clubs, Watene-Zelezniak said the decision to sign only a one-year extension was his own.

"I've always signed one-year deals as it gives me extra motivation and makes sure I'm working hard to earn my place in the team," he said.

"The Panthers have shown a lot of belief in my abilities and I am determined to repay that faith on the field."

A member of the premiership-winning Panthers NYC side of 2013, Watene-Zelezniak went on to make his NRL debut in Round 5 of the 2014 season.

He earned high praise filling in at fullback for the injured Matt Moylan in 2015 but a collapsed lung and subsequent surgery ended his season prematurely.

Watene-Zelezniak is now back in full training and looking forward to playing his part in the club's historic 50th season in 2016.