Panthers re-sign Lang

The Penrith Panthers have been given a welcome boost ahead of Friday night?s blockbuster with the Sydney Roosters, with coach John Lang today re-signing with the club for a further two seasons.

Lang is now contracted to the defending premiers until at least the end of 2006.

Lang?s re-signing was a formality after the former Sharks mentor guided the Panthers to their first premiership since 1991 last season.

?John is not only an integral part of our success so far ? he is an important part of our future,? Penrith CEO Shane Richardson said today. ?He has helped instill a winning culture here. John shares with me the desire to make Penrith the best rugby league club in the world ? both on and off the field.?

Panthers captain Craig Gower was pleased at hearing the news of Lang?s renewed commitment to the club.

?I think it?s great for the club that we are keeping everyone here,? Gower said. ?He?s really brought us together as a team and his record speaks for itself.?

Lang says that while the Grand Final was a huge achievement, he isn?t quite finished with success at Penrith just yet.

?I really enjoy coaching at Penrith and I want to see just what we can achieve in the years ahead,? Lang said.

?We have a strong side, a very young side and I believe it?s one that can be in the firing line for a long time. I want to see if we?re good enough to kick on.?

Lang joined the Panthers in 2002 and took just twelve months to turn the club into a winning force.