Rookie NZ Warriors wing Edward Kosi has been upgraded to a full-time NRL contract until the end of the 2023 season.
The 22-year-old had been on a development deal and made his first-grade debut in the Warriors' round-eight win over North Queensland Cowboys, where he was called in as a last-hour replacement for injured David Fusitu'a.
He went on to make five further appearances in the top tier, as well as nine outings for feeder club Redcliffe, after developing through the Warriors age-group ranks.
Coach Nathan Brown is encouraged by what he's seen from Kosi to date, particularly the mettle he showed that evening against the Cowboys, and only sees further growth in the wing's future.
"He had no time to prepare, but he got heavily involved from the outset and has gone on to make real strides this year," says Brown. "We see him having a big future."
In his five NRL outings this year, Kosi averaged 110 metres, made nine tackles breaks and scored his first try in the win over Canterbury Bulldogs.
The Mangere East Hawk could become a fixture in the first-grade squad, says Warriors recruitment manager Peter O'Sullivan.
"He has come through the ranks from our 20s, reserve grade and Redcliffe to debut this year," says O'Sullivan. "His play in the Intrust Super Cup was outstanding and every aspect of his game is on the up.
"Ed has earned his contract and with more experience in the next two years, he’ll push to be a permanent member of the starting 13."
Kosi was one of six NRL rookies introduced by the Warriors this year, with Rocco Berry, Taniela Otukolo and Viliami Vailea also coming through the club's system.
The quartet - along with fellow debutants Reece Walsh and Jackson Frei - all stepped up to the NRL after playing for Redcliffe.
