Penrith Panthers is delighted to announce winger Brian To’o has signed an upgraded deal which sees him promoted to the club’s top 30 squad.
Previously on an NRL development contract, the promotion paves the way for To’o to make his NRL debut against New Zealand Warriors on Friday.
The 20-year-old local junior has committed to Panthers until the end of 2020.
“I’m so grateful to be in this position and to have this incredible opportunity to make my NRL debut,” To’o said.
“From the moment I played SG Ball with the Panthers, I told myself I had to stay hungry and work hard every day to reach this point.
“I can’t wait to feel the atmosphere when I take my first step onto the field tomorrow night.”
To’o progressed through the junior development pathways at Panthers and was a member of the club’s SG Ball side that won the premiership and national championship title in 2016.
He was a consistent performer for the successful Panthers Jersey Flegg team the following two years and represented the NSW U20s Origin side in 2018.
To’o’s strong form in the Canterbury Cup this season was last week rewarded with selection in the NSW Residents squad.
“Brian is an outstanding example of what can be achieved thanks to the hard work of the Panthers development staff,” Panthers General Manager Rugby League Matt Cameron said.
“He is a home-grown talent who has come through the system and earned his way into the NRL squad.
“He brings great energy to our team and we are all excited to see what the future holds for him.”