Staying Home: Couchman twins ink Red V extension

The St George Illawarra Dragons are pleased to announce that Ryan and Toby Couchman have agreed to contract extensions that will see them remain with the club until at least the end of the 2027 season.

Having spent their junior days at the Thirroul Butchers, the twins progressed through the club's pathways system with Ryan earning an Australian Schoolboys nod in 2021 whilst at Bulli High and Toby representing the Blues in Under 19s Origin the following year.

Toby's NRL debut came in the side's 2023 season opener against the Titans before Ryan followed him that same year in Round 23 against the Eels.

Toby went on to play 15 games for the Red V as a rookie scoring a pair of tries and taking home the club’s Geoff Selby Memorial Trophy for NRL Emerging Talent.

“This club means a lot to Ryan and I, so we're excited to have sorted out our future here,” Toby said.

“We grew up supporting the Dragons. It's such a special feeling playing here and I know that the best is yet to come.”

Ryan added: “I'm really pleased to be extending my time at the Dragons.

“I really trust Flano's vision and felt like we made a big leap this year as a club. I want to be a part of what we're building.”

Head Coach Shane Flanagan was also thrilled to have locked the twins down and expects them to play a significant role moving forward.

“It was definitely important for the club to extend both of the boys,” Flanagan said.

“They're really good footballers, but also really good people who put in the work. They're local products and they care about the club deeply, so it's exciting to know they're going to be here for a while. They grew into a bigger role this past season and didn't let anyone down. We know that their best football is yet to come.”

Click here to read article