An explosive hooker, Cook joined the Rabbitohs in October of 2015 and went on to represent the club 17 times in 2016.

Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire said he was happy with Cook’s decision to remain in the Red & Green.

“Damien Cook is a true professional when it comes to his footy,” Maguire said.

“The dedication he displays on the field and during training has really seen him evolve as a player. The combinations he’s formed within the team and the skill we saw from Cook at the back end of this season comes directly from that determination he has."

Cook was equally excited about re-signing with the Rabbitohs and echoed Maguire’s comments about the opportunity to progress as a player in the Red & Green.

“I feel like as a team we had a really strong finish to the season and I’m sure we’ll build on that through the pre-season and into 2017. I want to be a part of that and I’m keen to get stuck in with the boys,” he said.