Get to know one of Wests Tigers' new recruits for season 2016 — Matt Ballin!
Ballin joins Wests Tigers after more than 200 games and a decade of first-grade experience with the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, where he won two premierships in 2008 and 2011 and also made his representative debut for Queensland in 2010.
Speaking to weststigers.com.au, Ballin said he was incredibly excited to join Wests Tigers, believing the move to a mostly young squad will rejuvenate him in season 2016.
"It's really exciting for me, it's been a really exciting week," Ballin said.
"I've been welcomed in and all the players have been really friendly.
"I've found it really refreshing so far and I can't wait to get back on the field.
"I was at Manly for 11 years, but coming here is a change and a breath of fresh air.
"You meet new faces and do new training, and you put yourself back on the edge to learn new things, and that's something that helps you grow as a player.
"I've had nothing but compliments and kind words since coming here, and I'm looking forward to feeding off the enthusiasm in this Club amongst all the young guys."
Having picked up a serious knee injury at the end of season 2015 that saw him undergo off-season surgery, Ballin said his recovery was coming along very well as he looks to return to pre-season training in the New Year to get back on the field for Round 1.
"It's going well," Ballin said. "I haven't had a long-term injury before, so it's something that I don't really have the best handle on but the rehab staff have been really good to me.
"So far it's going really well and I'm just trying to get it stronger and stronger every day."
Hear more from Matt Ballin about his move to the Wests Tigers in the video above.
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Player Profile — Matt Ballin
Date of Birth: 5th January, 1984
Position: Hooker
Junior Club: Kingaroy Red Ants
Previous Clubs: Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles (2007-15)
FG Debut: Manly-Warringah vs. Wests Tigers, Leichhardt Oval, 24/03/2007 (Rd.2)
Rep. Honours: Premiership Winner (2007, 2011), Queensland Origin (2010)
