Black's Hill adds to Strength

The Blacks yesterday announced the signing of former West Tigers forward Clint Hill. Hill comes to the club to bolster the forward ranks and is sure to make an impact in the Tooheys League Competition which is quickly becoming a known catchment of NRL and top-line talent, the likes of which has not been seen since the inception of the Illawarra Steelers in 1982.

Hill's size and strength will see the Black's forwards pack a mighty punch in 2004. Already brimming with enthusiasm with the likes of the Bobbin Brothers and Wayne Harvey, it will form a formidable platform from which the Port Club can launch an almighty assault on the title against the likes of 2003 premiers Thirroul, perennial title contenders Collegians and Dapto, and re-invigorated Wests and Wollongong Bulls sides.

Another former Blacks player in Jason Sullivan returns to the Club to add some valuable pace to the outside backs. Sullivan has enjoyed much success with Collegians, winning premierships and representing the Illawarra District in the Country Championships in the process. But it was with The Blacks where Sullivan kicked off his Illawarra League Career, playing in 42 Grade Games (including 16 First Grade) and amassing 168 points before being lured to the Wollongong based Collegians.

It is expected that Sullivan will form a new look centre pairing with fellow recruit Nathan Heffernan, with the likes of Paul Lokys, Mohamad Alchaar, Clinton Schrader and Don Kane vying for the remaining outside back and custodial positions.

With the return of Mark Simon and brother Craig gaining the playing coach role, the halves look well covered, although 2003 halfback and Tooheys League leading pointscorer David Hall has indicated a return to Noel Mulligan Oval is on the cards.

Port will also have a healthy contingent of Under 18's willing and able to step up when needed during the season. Last year's captain in Kane Armstrong is a willing candidate while the new boys from the victorious Under 16's squad will press their claims for a run throughout the season.