South Sydney prop Ben Ross is set to complete one of the NRL’s greatest ever comeback stories, after re-signing for 2 years with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
The Maroon, who hasn’t played since the start of the 2009 season after breaking his neck whilst playing for the Sharks, was offered a life-line for the start of the 2010 season by the Bunnies.
Ross, who is also a former Dragon and Panther, had initially been anticipated to make his return to the field for the Bunnies this year, but after some conservative advice from Rabbitohs medical staff, both he and the club doctors agreed that it was best if he didn’t play in 2010.
Despite what has been a traumatic experience for both the club and player, the Bunnies have stuck by Ross throughout the course of his injury, and the club evidently showed their faith after rewarding him with this new deal.
“I’m very excited about playing again and to be able to return with South Sydney is an honour in itself,” Ross said.
“It’s been a long two years to get back into a position to play again, and I’m very grateful to the South Sydney Club to, firstly, help me get back on the field and, secondly, show faith in me to sign a two-year deal.”
“I’ll be doing everything in my power to repay the club and its members over the next two seasons.”
There was talk that Ben Ross would be cut from the side, or placed on the injured list indefinitely, but Bunnies chief executive Shane Richardson says that many at the club are eagerly waiting for the day when Ross makes his debut in the green and red jersey.
“Ben is effectively a new recruit for the club in season 2011 and we’re looking forward to seeing him return to his damaging best over the next two years,” Richardson said.
“He brings great experience to our pack, a winning attitude, and his journey to return to playing after such a bad injury and long rehabilitation period is inspiring.”
“I’m sure our ticketed members will turn out in force to support Ben and the Rabbitohs in his first game back at Return to Redfern 2011.”