The Parramatta Eels have made a bold show of confidence in their youth pathways by securing one of their brightest young talents, Fontayne Tufuga, on a long-term contract upgrade and extension through to the end of the 2028 NRLW season.
The exciting playmaker has also been promoted into the NRLW Development Squad for the rest of 2025, continuing her impressive rise through the Eels’ female development system.
A proud All Saints Toongabbie junior, Tufuga has steadily built her career within the Blue & Gold pathways. Over the past few seasons, she has worn the club’s colours across multiple competitions including the Lisa Fiaola Cup, Tarsha Gale Cup, and Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. Each step has highlighted her talent, composure, and ability to adapt to higher levels of competition.
Her breakout moment came in 2025, when she earned a call-up to the NSW U19s Origin side, playing a year above her age group. Not only did she rise to the challenge, but she also played a crucial role in guiding her team to a memorable Origin victory. That performance confirmed her status as one of the most exciting young players in the women’s game.
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football, Mark O’Neill, praised both her journey and the qualities that made the extension an easy decision.
“Fontayne has been outstanding at every stage of her development. From Lisa Fiaola through to our 2025 Tarsha Gale premiership squad and now into the NRLW system, she has impressed with her skill, composure, and fearless playing style. This extension is well earned, and we see her as a vital part of the future of our club.”
The upgrade is not just a reward for Tufuga’s hard work but also a reflection of the Eels’ commitment to investing in homegrown talent. By securing her until 2028, Parramatta have signaled their long-term vision of building a squad that blends experienced leaders with rising stars.
For Tufuga, the new deal represents both recognition of her achievements and an opportunity to continue growing at the highest level. With the full support of her coaches and teammates, she now has the platform to develop into one of the competition’s standout players.
The Eels congratulated her on the milestone and expressed excitement about what lies ahead in the Blue & Gold. For fans, the message is clear: Fontayne Tufuga is not only one to watch now, but a key figure in the future of Parramatta’s NRLW journey.