BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 24: Sam Tagataese of the Broncos takes on the defence during the round 12 NRL match between the Brisbane Broncos and the Parramatta Eels at Suncorp Stadium on May 24, 2018 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Sam Tagataese has signed a one-year contract extension with the Brisbane Broncos in hopes he can elevate his game to another level.

Tagataese didn't have a great start to life as a Bronco in 2018 after making the switch from Cronulla, only managing four appearances for the club.

However, the 2016-premiership winner's strong work ethic, along with his reliability and experience around the young forwards at Brisbane helped convince the club to re-sign him for 2019.

The 31-year old told broncos.com.au he has challenged himself to make his next NRL campaign one of the best in his career.

"Season 2018 wasn't what I wanted it to be," Tagataese said.

"I've been given the opportunity again so I am really grateful for that.

"I can't leave knowing I didn't put everything in.

"Even though I have been in the game for a long time 2018 was a learning stage for me.

"Coming into the Broncos really opened my eyes a lot about myself.

"It really gave me a sense of that I want to put in a lot more - just to challenge myself and see where that can take me."

The 172-gamer believes building consistency in his game will help him make a big impact for the Broncos rather than being a middle-of-the-road veteran forward.

With the retirement of Sam Thaiday, Tagataese jokes he has two new roles to take up at the club in 2019- being the oldest member of the squad, and carrying on the nickname 'Sammy T'.

Tagataese said he would be a different kind of 'Sammy T' compared to the jokester which was Thaiday.

"I've got some big shoes to fill," Tagataese laughed.

"He is going to be missed - he is a larrikin and that is something I can't imitate.

"I am just going to have to be myself - but there is a new 'Sammy T' coming in.

"Hopefully I can promote some positive influence around the squad for 2019."

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