Wests Tigers are pleased to announce that Chris Lawrence has signed a new playing contract with the club for the 2020 season.

The new, one-year deal will see the Life Member remain with Wests Tigers for his 15th season at the club — making the 31-year-old the longest consecutively serving player in Wests Tigers history.

A local junior of Wests Tigers, Lawrence made his memorable first-grade debut back in 2006 — quickly becoming a regular of the side with his blistering speed and try-scoring potency.

He would go on to become one of four players to register 200 NRL games for Wests Tigers and was inducted as a Life Member of the club in 2016.

The club’s all-time leading try-scorer and third most capped player of all time, Lawrence has had a profound impact on Wests Tigers both on and off the field, and said he was delighted to extend his playing career with the club for another season.

“I’m extremely thankful and proud to re-sign with Wests Tigers for another year,” Lawrence said. “This club has always been where I have called home and I’m really excited to be able to continue playing in the colours that I love.

This club has always been where I have called home... Chris Lawrence

“The Members and fans of Wests Tigers have always shown tremendous support to me throughout my career and I’m very grateful for that.

"Under Michael Maguire, Wests Tigers is definitely going in the right direction so I’m looking forward to being a part of that and help bring the success this club deserves.”

Wests Tigers Head Coach Michael Maguire praised Lawrence’s leadership and said he had an integral role to play in the side in 2020.

“I’m really pleased we’ve been able to re-sign Chris,” Maguire said.

“He has been a wonderful player for this club for a long time but continues to grow in his game and role on the field — which is most pleasing to see.

“Chris is a really key part of what we’re building here as one of the senior players in the side, and I have no doubt that he will continue to show that on and off the field in the year ahead.”

Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe echoed the praise for Lawrence, highlighting his connection and contribution to the club throughout his career.

“Chris is terrific role model for not only Wests Tigers but the game of rugby league,” Pascoe said. “He works extremely hard on and off the field and is a wonderful example for the younger players in our squad with his professionalism, work ethic and the standard he sets and accepts.

“Throughout his entire career, Chris has set a superb example in the way he demonstrates our club values and I’m delighted to see him remain with us for another year.”