The Western Force are moving swiftly in shoring up their 2017 roster, with lock Ben Matwijow the latest addition for next year.
Matwijow joined the Reds in 2016 as injury cover for Wallaby lock Kane Douglas, playing 11 matches for Queensland.
He will join the Force following his stint with ITM Cup side Taranaki, something he’s looking forward to after first training with the Force back in 2013.
“I’m really excited to be coming to the Force,” he said.
“And I’m looking forward to getting back over there and helping the club move in the right direction.
“I’ve sort of come full circle after spending some time with the Force back in 2013 and I’m excited to get back and hopefully play some Super Rugby for the club that gave me my first crack.”
The Force have a strong lock department, with Wallabies debutant Adam Coleman and rising star Ross Haylett-Petty showing promise this season and Matwijow said he was looking forward to being a part of that pack.
“I’ve been really impressed with Adam Coleman and Ross Haylett-Petty this season,” he said.
“I’ve played against Adam a bit before in Sydney club footy and I’ve been impressed by what Ross did this season with his great work rate. So I’m looking forward to getting over there, having some competition and hopefully making each other better.”
Interim Force coach Dave Wessels said Matwijow would be a handy addition for the squad in 2017.
“Ben is someone who we first got to know in 2013 and have kept an eye on since,” he said.
“We're delighted now to be able to bring him back into the group.”
“Ben stands out as an incredibly hard worker both on and off the field - he is a qualified accountant and brings a real workman-like quality to our second row.”
“He is also extremely humble and motivated and is just the sort of character we feel will add to the richness of our group as we continue our journey.
