Sea Eagles snare another Tiger, but will Tigers even care?

There has been a slow but steady stream of player movement between the Wests Tigers and Manly in recent seasons, including Luke Brooks, Jake Simpkin and the Fainu brothers.

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So the news that Tigers backline star Starford To’a will be wearing maroon and white in 2027 comes as only a minor surprise.

Contracted at Concord until the end of 2028, the Tigers and To’a have mutually agreed to his release to take up an opportunity on the Northern Beaches from next season.

Manly confirmed To’a has signed a two-year deal in a move that will see the 25-year-old help cover the loss of Reuben Garrick to the Sydney Roosters in 2027.

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A New Zealand born Tongan international, To’a made his NRL debut for the Newcastle Knights back in 2019 and has played 67 games for the Tigers since linking with the club in 2022, scoring 21 tries.

Having struggled with injuries and form in recent seasons, To’a has been in and out of Benji Marshall’s side in 2026, playing just five times in first 16 rounds of the season.

With the emergence of young backs like Heamasi Makasini and Faaletino Tavana his departure is no doubt seen as a win-win situation for all parties.

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To’a gets a fresh start at under Kieran Foran at Brookvale, while the Tigers enjoy some welcome cap relief at Concord.

“We’re really grateful for what Star has done for the Club over a number of years,” Tigers coach Benji Marshall said on announcement of the news.

“We’re glad to have him with us until the end of this season and we wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career.”

Meanwhile, Manly head coach Kieran Foran said To’a will add quality and depth to the Sea Eagles squad in 2027.

“Starford is a quality player and a really good person, we look forward to welcoming (him) and his family with open arms next season.”

The Club has secured the signing of outside back Starford To’a on a two-year deal commencing in the 2027 season pic.twitter.com/hGFq46LhR0

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— Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (@SeaEagles) June 22, 2026