St George Illawarra Dragons second-rower Will Matthews believes the team’s growth on the field this season was one reason behind his decision to remain at the Club for a further two seasons.
The Kyogle Turkeys junior put pent-to-paper on an extended to year deal on Friday which sees him remain at the Dragons until at least the end of the 2017 season.
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Matthews notes it is positive to see so many of his teammates additionally re-sign with the Club which proves what is trying to be built under the watchful guidance of Head Coach Paul McGregor.
The Dragons return from their bye round for an interrupted twelve week set of competition fixtures which start against the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium, Moore Park on Monday.
“I’m really excited to be extending my stay here at the Dragons for two more years which is really great news for both my family and myself,” said Matthews.
“There were a number of things that helped me make up my mind including the team showing positive signs on the field and knowing there are more things to come to continue this.
“I also have a young family here who have started school in the area which is also important as it provides stability for them as well.
“I’ve played under Paul McGregor now for a number of years both in the Illawarra Cutters as well as with the Dragons which was also definitely one of the key things that kept me here as well.
“The Club has now re-signed a fair few number of the guys which is important in trying to keep that core group together which his another way of keeping the team strong.
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“The upcoming game against the Roosters will be a tough, physical game reminiscent of the one we played recently on ANZAC Day; just hopefully there’s no hail this time.
“We now have a twelve week bloc of games so these next few weeks are going to be crucial leading into the back end of the year and we need to nail them and keep playing the way we are.”