Earlier this month, the Wests Tigers released a statement outlining the departure of Robbie Farah and that he would not be a Tiger in 2017 and beyond.
Fast forward to the present day and his new home has been confirmed, with the worst kept secret in recent times now confirmed, as Farah signs a 2-year deal with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Playing in 247 NRL games for the Wests Tigers, Farah made his debut in 2003, was a member of the 2005 premiership winning side and has been made a life member of the club.
Farah will always have fond memories of the club that he represented for more than a decade.
“I’d like to thank Wests Tigers Members and fans for their support throughout my career, it’s been invaluable to me,†said Farah.
“No matter what happens in the future, this Club will always be special to me and it’s been a part of my life for so long. I have so many fond memories and have made lifelong friends here.”
Earlier this month, Farah was given a farewell at Leichhardt Stadium with the Tigers faithful attending to send their farewells and well-wishes.
“I’m looking forward to getting out onto Leichhardt Oval tomorrow at half time and saying goodbye to those who have supported me for my entire career,†he added.
“While it will be tough to watch the team from afar next season, I wish my teammates all the best for the future.
“Most importantly, I have always played for the fans and am forever indebted to them for the support that I have received from them.”
The same statement also had a comment from Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe, who praised Farah for his commitment to the club and his work for them.
“On behalf of everyone at Wests Tigers I would like to thank Robbie for his long-term contribution to the Club,†said Pascoe.
“Robbie has been a major part of this Club for such a long time and will always be remembered as a Wests Tigers legend.
“We’ve been working closely with Robbie and his manager to get to a position to where we could give him the farewell that he deserves and it’s great that we can finally do that.
“Tomorrow is going to be an incredible day at Leichhardt Oval and Robbie’s farewell at half time will only add to the atmosphere.â€
From Souths perspective, the aim for them is to provide further competition for spots at the club. With a player of Farah’s quality, Souths fans would be expecting him to slot straight into the side.
“Robbie has accomplished many things in the game and we look forward to him joining our squad and pushing for a spot in our top 17 each week,†Coach Maguire said.
“Competition for spots is a driving factor for success at any Club and by adding a player of Robbie’s ability we will be increasing that competition within our squad.
“Within our organisation we believe Robbie will strengthen our Club and we look forward to working with him when he joins us for pre-season training.â€