Very happy that Peta has his future sorted now. Securing an upgraded contract and $150k extra a year at Penrith while playing at one of his preferred positions softens the blow of leaving Manly a bit. Also joining a side that could be a possible darkhorse contender if they avoid major injuries is exciting as well.
There is also a big Kiwi contingent of players at the Panthers which will help him settle in and feel at home. I saw on Peta's facebook our very own Joe G welcoming him to the neighbourhood which I thought was cool. With Peta and his partner Lisa expecting their first child thats important.
I hope he takes the next step forward in his career there, continues to improve his game and becomes an even better player. While one door shuts, another opens and new opportunities present themself.
While I obviously would haved preferred his future remained here at Manly I understand to an extent the reasons they let him go. Still doesn't make it easier for me to accept but I am coming to peace with the decision.
Trent and Bozo have a plan which they believe will bring success again to the club, so I can only hope and trust this is the case. They have made quality acquisitions this off season, which have strengthened the playing roster considerably while offloading some excess baggage.
At the end of the day I was blessed to see the neph Peta play for my beloved team for 3 years. He made his NRL debut here and went on to achieve many things from team top tryscorer to record metres run in a game to becoming a Kiwi international.
I personally don't think he achieve's these accolades and success so quickly at any other club. The skills and knowledge he must have learnt from our experienced veterans has to have been invaluable in his development.
Manly will always be a part of Peta, because without them he may never have become the player he is now. He has exceeded my expectations by a mile as I thought Peta may just end up a NSW Cup player who gets a few runs in top grade. He damn blew that theory away lol!!!