The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys can announce that Ingham product Ben Spina has signed a contract extension until the end of the 2017 season.

The 27-year-old second-rower will continue his time with the Cowboys after being a valuable member of coach Paul Green’s forward rotation this season.

The son of foundation Cowboys captain Laurie Spina, Ben said the most important thing for him and his rugby league career was to stay in his local area.

“I’m thrilled to be able to remain in North Queensland, playing for the Cowboys and continuing to develop as a player,” Spina said.

“My family were keen for me to remain in North Queensland, so this is the perfect fit.”

Spina made his Cowboys and NRL debut in round 17, 2014 against the St George Illawarra Dragons and has played four NRL games, coming off the bench as an interchange forward.

His three games in 2015 have come in rounds nine through 11 and his presence in the Cowboys’ roster adds to the club’s forwards depth.

Cowboys General Manager – Football Peter Parr said Spina was a no-nonsense, NRL-quality forward who typified the type of player valued at the Cowboys.

“We’re stoked to have Ben re-sign with the club for another two seasons,” Parr said. “And although he doesn’t have many NRL games under his belt for someone his age, he’s got plenty of high-level rugby league experience and complements our forward stocks beautifully.”

Spina also plays for the Northern Pride – one of three Cowboys feeder teams – in the Intrust Super Cup.