The St George Illawarra Dragons announced on Friday that Jake Marketo has agreed to a one-year contract extension that will see him remain at the Club until at least the end of 2016.

Marketo, 26, made his first-grade debut for the Club in round 11 of the 2010 season against the Canberra Raiders and has played 21 first-grade games to date.

The former Dragons NYC captain (2009), who can play in the second-row or lock-forward, re-joined the Club prior to the start of this season after playing two seasons for the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Queensland Cup.

“It was an easy decision for me to make in regards to remaining here as this Club means a lot to me,” said Marketo.

“I am focused now on repaying the faith shown in me by Head Coach Paul McGregor and continuing to play my role within the team.”

Dragons Director of Recruitment and Retention Peter Mulholland is likewise pleased by the contract-extension of Marketo.

“Jake loves the Club and has been really focused and committed since being given a second chance and he has been rewarded with an additional year for his efforts to date," said Mulholland.

“Jake provides a lot of positive energy at training and in games and has great utility value for our squad with his ability to cover a number of positions.

“Everyone at the Club is happy that we have been able to come to an arrangement that will see him extend his stay at the Dragons."