Leigh Leopards have announced that star half-back Lachlan Lam has signed a new contract, keeping him at club until the end of 2027.
Lam, who has been one of the best players in the league this year with 41 assists, has signed a new two-year deal. He is the focal point of the Leopards attack, and now has the ability to develop those key combinations, with half-back partner Gareth O’Brien also agreeing new terms last month.
The PNG International was snubbed of both a Super League Dream Team selection and a Man of Steel nomination, with many fans protesting his absence in both awards.
Joining the club in 2022, when Leigh were in the Championship, he has helped them progress not just to Super League, but to becoming one of the top sides in the division, as shown by their third-placed finish this year.
The 27-year-old has made over 100 appearances for the Leopards, and recently commented on how lucky he is to work under his father, Adrian Lam. The two have been integral to Leigh’s success, and that partnership will continue for at least another two seasons.
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Speaking on his new contract, Lam said: “It feels really good to re-sign. It’s been a bit of a process, but it was an easy decision and it’s a weight off my shoulders. I’m happy to get it done.
“The atmosphere at our club is special and there are some really good people here. We have a great group.
He has once again commented on his relationship with his father, and also the way he has grown into a leader, he said: “Playing for my father is also special. There are a few reasons why I’ve signed again but that was the main one. It’s special to work together and achieve things together.”
“We have a young, hungry and group and the boys showed faith in me making me co-captain (with Isaac Liu). I touched on it last year. In 2023 we climbed the peak of the mountain, and we want to do it again. Those moments are special, and we are always chasing success here.”
Leopards owner Derek Beaumont, who himself has been in the headlines this week, commented on the pleasure of having a player like Lachlan at the club.
He said: “This is massive news for our club and shows our ambitions ahead of the membership release. Lachlan came over here and backed himself and he’s a massive player for us.
“This year he’s got the highest try assists in Super League and grown as a player and a person. Ideally, I’d like to see him complete ten years at the club and then move into coaching like his dad.
Beaumont revealed there was plenty of interest for his star man, however there were too many key factors that led Lam into staying at the club.
He said: “Lachlan is a measured and articulate person who wants to digest everything before he commits to something. He accepts where we are as a club and how we value him. Lachlan wants to win things, and he knows those opportunities exist at some clubs more than others. It’s never been an issue about Lachlan re-signing. He’s a marquee player and attracts a lot of attention and teams have been going hard for him, some very aggressively.
“Rugby League is a short career, and players have to consider the best deal on the table. But Lachlan loves it here and his dad is a big factor. The club has grown under Lachlan and will continue to do so. Lachlan has already achieved great things with Leigh and will continue writing more history with his dad. He’s one of those players who lights up Super League and one of whom we need to make a high profile.”
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