Ben Creagh

Known as natural born leaders, evidenced by duty as captain for the NRL and NYC teams respectively – the St George Illawarra Dragons have confirmed that both Ben Creagh and Craig Garvey have signed for 2 years, with Creagh having the option for a 3rd.

Creagh, 28, is a local junior, having come through the University of Wollongong Ranks and made his debut back in 2003, playing in 207 NRL games to date.

The club is one that Creagh has supported and grown up with throughout his life and he is ecstatic at the chance to get to continue his strong association with the club.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be given another contract which I’m really happy about,” said Creagh.

“I’m a local junior having played for the Club all my life and I want to finish my career here.

“I am really proud to be the Captain of this famous Club, I love everything associated with it and didn’t want to go anywhere else.

“I am definitely excited knowing that I will be remaining here with the Dragons and in the local area.”

For young NYC hooker Craig Garvey, he too is excited at the opportunity to remain with the club, with the young captain experiencing rep footy already, having previously represented the NSW U20’s side.

“I’m very excited, I really wanted to stay with the Dragons and it is good to know that I am here for at least the next two years and I am thankful to the Club for the opportunity,” said Garvey.

“I have learnt so much from the coaches and players here and really enjoy the opportunities to learn from the senior guys and know what levels of commitment and professionalism are required to make it to the NRL and that is definitely what I am working towards.”

Equally pleased that the duo have re-signed, is Dragons CEO Peter Doust praising the loyalty that Creagh has shown and his maturity into a front-line player, as well as the retention of upcoming talent Craig Garvey.

“Ben has played first grade for 10 seasons, represented the game at all levels and is an outstanding leader whom everyone respects,” said Doust.

“Ben epitomises the modern day sporting role model with his commitment and professionalism to his rugby league, his University studies and small business venture (Smart Fox) aimed at educating youth.

“Ben instigated the ‘Graduates of League’ program with the University of Wollongong to increase university entry, retention and completion rates of elite athletes and professional sports people and the results and involvement of rugby league players, not just at the Dragons but also other clubs, is outstanding.

“His dedication and attitude to everything he undertakes is first class and everyone at the Dragons is delighted that he has chosen to finish his career where it started as a one-club man.

“Craig is a rising talent who has developed through our rugby league pathways to be the current Captain of our NYC Team and a key performer in this competition who thoroughly deserved his selection in the NSW Blues U20s this year.

“Craig certainly attracted plenty of interest from other clubs but we see him as playing a key part in our future and are very happy to have secured him for at least the next two seasons”.

Equally pleased, is Dragons coach Steve Price who is excited with the retention of the duo.

“Ben has been an outstanding individual for our football club since he came into the organisation,” said Price.

“It’s great to have him on board as he’s just an outstanding leader and I cannot say enough good things about him.

“Craig is a talented and exciting player who was outstanding for our NYC team last year and just keeps on improving.

“It is very pleasing for the football club going forward to have retained Craig.”

Craig Garvey

By ricky

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