Wakefield Trinity have confirmed the capture of Mason Teague, a 23-year-old hooker from the Queensland Cup's Burleigh Bears, on a two-year contract that will run through to the end of the 2028 season. The signing fills the vacancy created when Tys0n Smoothy agreed to return to Australia at the end of the current season.
Club chiefs describe Teague as a ‘perfect fit’
Trinity's coaching staff say Teague matches the data and character profile they wanted for the number nine role. Head coach Daryl Powell insisted the new recruit aligns with the way the club plans to play moving forward.
“We believe in Mason we have found the perfect fit for our team and the way we play. He’s a quality player and is right at the top of all of our data analysis.”
The club's director of rugby also confirmed Teague had been on their shortlist for some time and that his recent transition into the nine position had accelerated interest from Wakefield. Teague, who has represented the Cook Islands, said he was eager to join the Super League and to meet Trinity supporters.
What the move means for the squad
Smoothy’s departure was completed after the club agreed to end his remaining contract on compassionate grounds, allowing him to sign for the Perth Bears as they prepare to enter the NRL. Wakefield have acted swiftly to ensure continuity in a specialist position that is central to the team's attack and defensive organisation.
- Player arriving: Mason Teague (Burleigh Bears)
- Contract length: Two years (to end of 2028)
- Outgoing: Tyson Smoothy — returning to Australia to join Perth Bears
Teague arrives as part of a recruitment drive that has already seen other overseas signings confirmed for next season, reinforcing Wakefield’s push to strengthen the squad for the immediate future.
Quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| New signing | Mason Teague |
| Age | 23 |
| Previous club | Burleigh Bears (Queensland Cup) |
| International caps | Cook Islands |
| Contract | Two years (to end of 2028) |
Supporters can expect Teague to arrive in 2027 to begin pre-season ahead of the new campaign. The club will now prepare the integration of another overseas player into Powell’s squad, while fans will be watching to see how the change at hooker affects Wakefield’s on-field dynamics.