Benji Marshall has returned to Wests Tigers, rejoining the NRL club as an ambassador – a year after being squeezed out of their playing roster.
After his messy exit from the joint venture, Marshall will return in a role where he will work closely with the club’s juniors.
It means Marshall’s first job after his retirement will be back at the club where his career began and where he produced his finest hour as a footballer in the Tigers’ 2005 grand final triumph.
“I’m very excited to start this new role with Wests Tigers and to continue contributing to a club that I’ve always loved,” Marshall said.
“Wests Tigers and its fans have been part of my family for the majority of my career and I’m looking forward to continuing that journey together.
“This is an exciting new role that allows me to contribute to the club in a number of ways both on and off the field.
“I’m looking forward to helping grow the next generation of Wests Tigers players coming through our pathways.”
Marshall’s departure from the Tigers at the end of 2020 came on ugly terms with the NRL veteran adamant he could play on.
Unwanted by coach Michael Maguire, he made no secret of his disappointment over the decision in his search for a new club.
However it became clear the bridge had been mended when he gave the Tigers early notice of his retirement at South Sydney last month, allowing them to create their own tribute.
The 346-game NRL player will now join former teammate and fellow Tigers legend Robbie Farah at the club.
Farah also has an ambassador role that includes some coaching.
“On behalf of all at the club, I’d like to say how pleased we are to be able to welcome Benji Marshall back home to Wests Tigers,” Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe said.
“Benji is inextricably linked with the heritage and DNA of Wests Tigers and his return to the club is something we’re incredibly proud to see happen.
“I have no doubt he will have a lasting impact on the connections that we are building at the club.”
© AAP
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