Wigan Warriors have confirmed a decision has been made on the future of off-contract veteran forward Willie Isa.
After confirmation that Mike Cooper had retired on medical grounds and the earlier revelation that Ryan Hampshire would be released at the end of his deal, Willie Isa was the only senior squad member whose future was unconfirmed beyond 2024.
That has now changed with Wigan Warriors confirming that the veteran has signed a one-year extension and will play on in 2025.
It means that Isa will enter his tenth season with Wigan Warriors and will play on through his 36th birthday following a terrible injury that ended his 2024 campaign.
Isa suffered an ankle break and dislocation in the Challenge Cup clash with Castleford Tigers back in April and has yet to play since, despite returning to training recently, but it’s now confirmed that he will play on in 2025 and hopefully get a swansong year.
Wigan Warriors confirm Willie Isa deal
Credit: Imago Images
The news of Isa signing an extension was confirmed by Wigan Warriors who released a statement announcing the veteran’s new deal.
It read: “Wigan Warriors can confirm that Willie Isa has signed a one-year extension to remain with the club for the 2025 Betfred Super League season.
“Isa, who will turn 36 on 1st January has been recovering from the serious ankle injury sustained at Castleford in April 2024.
“The Auckland-born second row forward, who debuted for Wigan in Round one of the 2016 season, has played a total of 209 games for the Cherry and Whites scoring 17 tries. He is a two-time Grand Final winner as well as a 2024 World Club Challenge from whom the team will undoubtedly benefit from his vast leadership experience.”
Speaking on his deal, Isa said:“I’m happy to continue to build on my game and on my leadership within the team & the club.
“I’m always grateful and privileged to be in the position I’m in professionally and in my life right now. As always, I’d like to say thank you for the continued support from our loyal supporters of our great club.”
Club coach, Matt Peet added: “Retaining Willie for another season is a really important signing for the Club. He has plenty left to give on the field, he is the ultimate competitor.
“His leadership and influence on the environment is massive and I am delighted that it will continue.
“The way he has conducted himself this season since his injury, his relentless attitude to his rehabilitation as well as his positivity in and around the squad just proves the kind of Club man that he is.”
