Dane Gagai Determined to Prove Age Is Just a Number in NRL
At 34, Dane Gagai is among the oldest players in the NRL this season, but the Newcastle Knights veteran is determined to show that experience is an asset, not a limitation. His goal? To prove he can still compete with the best and, ultimately, win the premiership that has eluded him.
Gagai is coming off one of his most impressive seasons yet—earning a State of Origin recall, securing a new contract, and winning the prestigious Danny Buderus Medal as the Knights’ Player of the Year. It was a season of validation, but he isn’t slowing down.
“I know people say I’m getting old in rugby league terms, but I don’t feel it,” Gagai told Fox Sports. “I love proving people wrong… but everything I do is about winning a competition now.
“I’ve been lucky enough to represent my country, my state, and my cultures—and win in those arenas. But a premiership is the one thing I haven’t achieved, and that’s what I want to tick off.”
Loyalty to Newcastle
Gagai has signed a new deal with the Knights, which could see him play for another two or three seasons, with a mutual option for 2027. The club had to fend off interest from the Sydney Roosters, but after spending nine years in Newcastle across two stints, staying put was an easy choice.
“This decision wasn’t just about me—I have my wife and three kids to consider,” he explained. “Newcastle has always felt like home, so it was based around my family.”
If the Knights take up the option, Gagai will be 36 when he potentially enters his final NRL season. However, he takes inspiration from Manly’s Daly Cherry-Evans, who continues to thrive at 36, captaining Queensland and representing Australia.
“My body feels good, and with modern sports science, players are extending their careers,” Gagai said. “Cherry-Evans is still at the top of his game, and I want to do the same.”
Focused on Improvement and Mentorship
Beyond chasing a premiership, Gagai’s personal goal for this season is to build on his 2024 form and silence any doubters.
“I want to win the grand final, but personally, it’s about being better than I was last year,” he stated. “And yes, I’m 34—people keep reminding me—but I want to prove that age is just a number.”
As a senior member of the squad, he also takes pride in mentoring Newcastle’s young outside backs. With 291 NRL games, 23 State of Origin appearances, and seven games for Australia, he has a wealth of experience to pass down.
“When I first came to Newcastle, guys like Timana Tahu took us young players under their wing. Now, it’s my turn,” Gagai said. “I’ve learned from legends like Greg Inglis, Justin Hodges, Darren Lockyer, Cameron Smith, and Billy Slater. If I can pass that knowledge on, it will only make our team and the game better.”
Future Plans and Family Aspirations
While Gagai remains fully focused on his current journey with Newcastle, his younger brother Jacob—signed with South Sydney—often encourages him to consider a move so they can play together. However, Gagai has a clear vision for how he wants his career to end.
“My ideal scenario? I’d love to finish up here in Newcastle,” he declared.
