To’o Joins Chiefs for Inaugural Season
The PNG Chiefs have announced the signing of Samoan international Brian To’o, a prominent winger, for their inaugural NRL Telstra Premiership season in 2028. To’o will join the club on a three-year deal after his current contract with the Penrith Panthers concludes at the end of the 2027 season. He is confirmed as Chiefs Player #006, becoming the sixth player to sign with the new club as it builds its roster for 2028.
To’o brings a record of success, including four NRL Premierships with the Penrith Panthers. He has made 151 NRL appearances, scoring 99 tries. His career also includes 17 State of Origin appearances for the NSW Blues and 11 Tests for Samoa.
Significance of the Signing
Lorna McPherson, CEO of PNG Chiefs, highlighted that To’o’s decision to join the club is significant beyond his on-field performance. She stated that the signing reflects the club’s commitment to its Pacific identity, emphasising values such as family, culture, community, and togetherness. McPherson noted that To’o embodies these values, which are deeply connected to rugby league across the Pacific region.
McPherson added that To’o’s choice to be part of the Chiefs sends a powerful message about the club’s vision and what it represents for the region. The aim is for young people across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific to see themselves reflected in the team. She expressed pride in welcoming To’o, his wife, and children into the Chiefs family.
Michael Chammas, General Manager – Football for the PNG Chiefs, described securing a player of To’o’s calibre as an important step in forming the club’s initial squad. Chammas pointed out To’o’s experience at the highest level of rugby league, noting his understanding of what is required to create and maintain a winning environment. He also stressed the cultural importance of the signing, highlighting To’o’s embodiment of values like family, sacrifice, humility, and togetherness, which are shared across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.
To’o’s Impact and Future with Panthers
To’o has been a key figure in the Penrith Panthers’ recent success, contributing to their four consecutive premierships from 2021 to 2024. The Panthers were also grand finalists in 2020 and reached the preliminary final in the previous year. In 2026, the Panthers are leading the NRL ladder as they pursue a fifth title in six years.
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary commented on To’o’s departure, acknowledging him as an exceptional player and a great person. Cleary praised To’o as a valuable teammate, a devoted family man, and someone who brings significant energy and positivity to the club daily. He also noted To’o’s substantial contribution to the team’s achievements and expressed anticipation for sharing one more season with him before he moves to his next chapter.
The PNG Chiefs have been actively building their roster. Other notable signings include former Penrith five-eighth Jarome Luai, who also won four premierships alongside To’o. Additionally, Alex Johnston, the all-time leading try scorer in Australian premiership rugby league, and NSW Origin representative Zac Lomax have joined the club. Sydney Roosters utility Connor Watson and Englishman Matty Lees are also among the players signed by the Chiefs for their debut season in 2028.
Source: nrl.com
