The Wests Tigers closed out their 2025 season with a night that combined optimism and overhaul — headlined by Terrell May being crowned the Kelly-Barnes Medal winner in his first year at the club.
The former Sydney Rooster was one of the most inspired signings of the NRL season, bringing aggression, consistency, and leadership to a forward pack that showed renewed bite in 2025. For long-suffering Tigers fans, May’s arrival represented a turning point — a sign that the club could once again compete with the NRL’s elite.
May’s Breakout Season: A Beacon of Hope
Joining the Tigers at the start of the 2025 campaign, Terrell May quickly became a fan favourite. His work rate through the middle, ability to generate post-contact metres, and defensive presence helped give the Tigers’ pack the foundation it had long lacked.
While the club’s overall results remained mixed, May’s consistency stood out in a side still rebuilding its identity. Week after week, he carried the fight to opposition packs, earning widespread praise from teammates and coaches alike.
May’s win makes him one of the few debut-season players in club history to claim the Tigers’ highest individual honour — a strong sign of his impact both on and off the field.
Tigers Announce Major Roster Clean-Out
Earlier in the week, the club confirmed a significant end-of-season roster sweep, farewelling a group of players as the Tigers continue their aggressive rebuild. The departures include both seasoned first-graders and emerging prospects.
Departing players
- Solomona Faataape → Catalans Dragons (Super League)
The centre-winger departs for England after limited first-grade opportunities in 2025. His move to Catalans gives him a new stage to showcase his speed and attacking instincts. - Josh Feledy → Unsigned
A promising young outside back who came through the Tigers’ pathways, Feledy leaves in search of a new opportunity to break into NRL regularity. - Alexander Lobb → Unsigned
Lobb provided cover across the backline throughout the season and featured in NSW Cup. His release reflects the Tigers’ intent to refresh their depth chart. - Justin Matamua → Unsigned
Once viewed as a key development forward, Matamua exits the club after several seasons on the fringe of first grade. His raw athleticism may still attract interest from rivals. - Brent Naden → Unsigned
A veteran of 80 NRL games, Naden departs following an injury-interrupted stint at Concord. His experience will be missed in a youthful backline. - Reuben Porter → Unsigned
Porter’s short stay with the Tigers ends with 8 matches in Tigers colours in 2024. - Charlie Staines → Catalans Dragons (Super League)
Like Faataape, Staines heads to France to join the Catalans. Known for his pace and versatility, he’ll look to revive his career abroad after an injury-hampered year in Australia. - Brandon Tumeth → Unsigned
Another product of the Tigers’ pathways, Tumeth’s release reflects the club’s renewed focus on reshaping its pack for 2026 and beyond.
