The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) has launched an investigation into the Wests Tigers' handling of young forwards Justin Matamua and Stefano Tumeth. Both players, who previously played together in the NSW under-19 side, have been demoted to lower-tier competitions, raising concerns about their treatment.
Matamua, managed by George Ghazal, has been relegated to the Ron Massey Cup, while Tumeth, a former NSW under-16 player of the year, is now playing in the Sydney Shield. The RLPA's investigation will include a 'please explain' request to the club regarding these demotions.
The RLPA has been involved in discussions with the Tigers this season concerning several players, including Jacob Miller, Solomona Faataape, and notable departures John Bateman and David Klemmer. The unusual circumstance of having multiple top-30 players in lower-tier competitions has further fueled the investigation.
The situation also involves Lachlan Galvin, whose contract was mentioned in the article's title. His manager, Isaac Moses, also represents both Tumeth and several other players who have had recent dealings with the Wests Tigers.
The Wests Tigers and the RLPA have both declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.