Penrith Panthers is delighted to announce local junior Kurt Falls has signed a two-year deal with the club.
The 24-year-old playmaker joins the Panthers NRL development list for the remainder of 2021 and will be promoted the club’s top 30 roster in 2022.
A Brothers Penrith junior who played schoolboy Rugby League alongside Nathan Cleary at St Dominic’s College, Falls has made 12 NSW Cup appearances in Panthers colours since 2019.
"To sign my first full-time contract is so exciting for me and my family," Falls said.
"Growing up I always wanted to play footy for a living but the years kept going by and it wasn’t working out. You start to think it’s not going to be achievable.
"To receive this opportunity now is just awesome. I can’t wait to rip in, keep learning and give my best for the club."
A qualified carpenter who was working full-time until six weeks ago, Falls has put his trade on the backburner to make the most of the opportunity at Panthers.
"Kurt’s story highlights how there are multiple entry points into the Panthers system and it’s never too late for a determined player to make their mark," Panthers General Manager Rugby League Matt Cameron said.
"Kurt has worked his way through the club’s feeder setup at St Marys and has benefited from the strength of our NSW Cup program.
"This opportunity is fair reward for a talented young player who has remained committed to achieving his goals in Rugby League."