Local junior Bailey Hayward has inked a new deal to remain with the Bulldogs until the end of the 2028 season, with the utility emerging as the club\u2019s long-term hooker after he replaced Reed Mahoney in the starting side on the weekend.<\/p>\n
Hayward signed an extension earlier this year for the 2026 season but has extended his stay for another two years after impressing in several roles.<\/p>\n
While he\u2019s played games at five-eighth, lock and off the bench, Hayward will likely be the club\u2019s dummy-half in 2026 after he got through a mountain of work starting there in Saturday\u2019s win over the Warriors.<\/p>\n
Mahoney is off to the Cowboys next year and coach Cameron Ciraldo could keep Hayward in the role leading into the finals.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re extremely happy to have Bailey extend his time at the club,\u201d general manager of football Phil Gould said. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe has shown an innate ability to play in multiple positions, and we have a clear vision for him to become a leader in our side. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe is a local junior, he bleeds Blue and White and we are very lucky to have him at our club.\u201d <\/p>\n
Meanwhile, veteran forward Tyson Frizell could bring up 300 NRL games next year after signing a one-year extension to remain in Newcastle. <\/p>\n
The 33-year-old workhorse made his debut back in 2011 and will play on with the Knights alongside fellow veteran Dane Gagai after initial fears the club wouldn\u2019t keep them.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are delighted Tyson is staying on for another year,\u201c Knights head of recruitment Peter O\u2019Sullivan said.<\/p>\n
\u201cHis experience, energy, and work ethic will be vital for the emerging edge players and several new middles we have joining the club.<\/p>\n
\u201cTyson is in terrific condition; despite playing and training with such velocity for over 15 years, his longevity is a testament to his true professionalism.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith the ability to play middle and edge forward, he gives the squad a strong balance and his extension is a perfect way to celebrate his 100 games at the Newcastle Knights.\u201d<\/p>\n