The North Sydney Bears have re-signed Jake Toby and Matt Stimson for the 2027 season.
Both players are key members of the Bears leadership group, and shapes as important extensions to keep the high standards shown by the club in the NSW Cup.
Toby will enter his fourth season as a Bear in his new deal after making the switch from the Manly Sea Eagles NRL squad for the 2024 season.
He was a standout player in the 2023 preseason challenge for Manly, who won the inaugural trophy that year.
In 15 appearances this year for the Bears, Toby has recorded nine tries, 14 line breaks and an impressive 16 try assists, highlighting his skillful playmaking as a fullback.
As part of his new deal, Toby will gain an opportunity to train with the Bears NRL side during the 2027 pre-season.
Stimson has also proven to be a try-scoring threat, crossing the white line nine times in 21 games with 13 line breaks from the second row.
The 27-year-old has spent time in the elite Panthers system, while also captaining the U18s Thunderbolts in 2019, based in Victoria.
In Week 2 of the finals, Stimson can notch up a century of appearances in NSW Cup, a credit to his tough work and resilience at NSW Cup level.
North Sydney football operations manager Daniel Hutton is thrilled the duo have re-signed with the foundation club.
"As we embark on the finals series for the 2026 season, we are also excited to look ahead to 2027 and continue building on the strong foundations of our NSW Cup program," he said in a North Sydney statement.
"Retaining key players has been a priority for the club, and having both Jake and Matt re-sign for the 2027 season is a testament to the positive direction we are heading and the culture we continue to foster.
"Jake and Matt have been the backbone of our team for a number of seasons, consistently demonstrating leadership, commitment, and professionalism.
"Their experience and influence have played a significant role in our success, and we are delighted to have them continue their journey with us.
"We look forward to the valuable contribution they will make as we strive for further success in 2027 and beyond."
The Bears will be the key feeder side for the new NRL outfit who gain entry to the competition under the coaching of Mal Meninga next year.
The Bears are flying in the NSW Cup in 2026, finishing second on the ladder with 16 wins and six losses during the regular season.
They will face the Newcastle Knights at Jubilee on Saturday.
