Just days after playing his 100th grade match for Northern Suburbs, skipper Ben Matwijow has signed to play with Canterbury in the 2015 ITM Cup.

The 25 year old lock, who played with the NSW Country Eagles in last year’s NRC, has been one of the Shoremen’s best in recent years and will play his last Shute Shield match of the season against Eastern Suburbs this weekend.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity ahead & developing my rugby in one of the best rugby environments in the world. It’s also great to stay in the colours of the red & black,” he said. 

Whilst Matwijow’s departure is a significant loss for the Shoremen, coach Simon Cron said he was thrilled for his skipper.

“Canterbury is a huge opportunity for Maj and his ability to play both Lock and Blindside has helped open the door. The coaches from Canterbury called me last Wednesday about Maj and we had quite a detailed discussion about what he can offer and they then took the opportunity to watch some of his games online.”

Cron said he was hopeful he’d see Matwijow back at Norths in the future.

“It is great for players at Norths to be able to have opportunities open up at ITM as well as in the NRC. I think his experience in New Zealand will help him continue his growth as a player”.

Norths are currently seventh on the Intrust Shute Shield ladder and must win their final two matches to qualify for the finals.

“It has been a great honour captaining the First Grade side for the 2015 season & although it saddens me to leave the boys at this stage of the season, I take comfort knowing that they are in the great hands of a really good coaching staff & senior playing group”, Matwijow added.