Blacks Go Forward

The Blacks have continued building on their plans for 2004 with the re-signing of two key forwards.

Nick Nikitaras and Paul Denniss have both agreed to terms and will wear the famous Black and White jersey for the coming season.

Nikitaras has been a regular and valuable member of the Blacks sides in their last two seasons, both culminating in semi finals appearances at season's end. Nikitaras has also enjoyed the taste of representative football, playing a part in the Illawarra Divisional team which won the Country Championships in 2002. Nikitaras's strength according to coaching staff is his ability to hit the advantage line at pace and take on solid defensive line ups, often creating half chances for those outside of him.

Paul Denniss came to the Blacks in 2002 direct from the Berkeley Under 18's. Denniss's strength and raw aggression was a key in Port's run at the 2002 title where they fell short against eventual premiers Dapto in an enthralling Preliminary Final. 2003 didn't reach the same heights with Denniss eventually succumbing to external commitments limiting his availability to Port.

Nikitaras and Dennis compliment an already strong forward pack with the likes of Andrew and Grant Bobbin, Clint Hill, Simon Smith and Wayne Harvey. Their confirmations are a boost to Port as they try to keep pace with likely competition heavyweights Collegians and Wests Illawarra, together with perennial forces Dapto and Thirroul. Wollongong and University are also shaping up as legitimate threats for the title, pointing towards an intriguing league season ahead.