The former Smithtown Tiger's contract with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs had expired at the end of the 2020 season and was not renewed.

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A loyal servant at the Bulldogs the prop was keen to continue his career, racking up 221 games after joining them from Melbourne in 2011.

"I'm looking forward to the opportunity. The Sharks have come along, offered a contract and I'm over the moon," Tolman said on sharks.com.au.

"To live local, come to a strong club that has played finals for a number of years, I'm really happy to be here and to be on board.

"Obviously, I want to be in the team, but I've got to earn my position. The club lost of lot of experience over the past few years and I'm looking forward to adding to that and I can't wait for the pre-season."

Coach John Morris said on the Sharks website he was keen to have Tolman on board.

"I'm excited to have him join us for next season," Morris said.

"He's a proven winner given his record at the Storm and Bulldogs, his experience will be invaluable, and his character is of the highest calibre.

"He's durable and has the rare ability to play big minutes. Aiden definitely adds much needed depth to our forwards, especially considering some of the injuries we have and the players we will be missing early in the season."

Tolman will be hoping to add to his 275 games tally and the long list of achievements from his career.