Representative forward Aaron Woods has re-signed with the Wests Tigers in a deal that will keep him at the club until at least the end of 2017.

The Tigers announced the retention of Woods, initially contracted until the end of this year, in a three-year deal on Monday with an option for a further year.

The NSW State of Origin forward’s long-term commitment to the joint venture is a show of faith in the club’s new board and coach Mick Potter after a disastrous 2013.

Woods had been linked to a big money move to Manly but said he was always keen to stay with the Tigers.

“I grew up in the area and as a local junior I was always keen to stay, so it’s good to get the deal done. I’m excited about staying,” Woods told reporters at training.

“We’ve got a lot of young kids coming through who are really good and they bring a lot of enthusiasm to the club. There are good times ahead.

“You always look into it (going elsewhere) but at the end of the day I wanted to stay. There is plenty to look forward to. I think we will be really competitive (in) the next few years.

Potter welcomed the re-signing of Woods, who made his Origin debut last year.

“Aaron has been part of the fabric here since he started as a junior so it is good that he will be here a few more years,” he said.

“He is a great acquisition to have,” Potter said.

“Woodsy likes to be around this area, he likes the people, he likes the fans and he wants to be at the Wests Tigers.

“It is a great boost for the club.”