Rabbitohs extend contract of Josh Cook for the next two seasons

The South Sydney Rabbitohs are excited to announce the re-signing of young local junior Josh Cook until at least the end of the 2021 season today.

Cook, 20, is a South Sydney junior from the La Perouse Panthers club, coming through the junior representative ranks to play at the Canterbury Cup and Jersey Flegg levels at hooker throughout the 2019 season.

Cook represented New South Wales under 16s and the New South Wales Indigenous under 16s teams in 2015, with injuries cruelling his opportunities to represent at higher levels despite being regarded as one of the best young talents in the country for his age group throughout his development.

Cook is very happy to have the opportunity to continue to learn his trade from his namesake, Damien Cook, over the next two seasons.

“It was a goal I set myself this year and it’s something I have strived for.

“I guess there’s a sense of relief to know I’m staying at this Club that I love, and I’m really excited about what is ahead for myself and for the team.

“I have an unbelievable opportunity to learn from one of the best, if not the best, hookers in the NRL in Damien Cook.

“To get the chance to train with him is fantastic and I can’t wait to learn more from him over the coming seasons.”

Rabbitohs General Manager of Football, Shane Richardson, says Cook is another rising star amongst the South Sydney playing ranks.

“All Josh has needed over the past few seasons to represent at higher levels is luck with injuries, something which unfortunately hasn’t come his way. However we are seeing his game improve every week in the Canterbury Cup and Jersey Flegg competitions this year and there is still plenty of improvement in him. His best football is definitely in front of him.

“He’s a very hard worker, he’s shown all the traits of a future NRL player, he’s a proud South Sydney junior from La Perouse and we’re looking forward to seeing Josh continue his development in the red and green of South Sydney.”