Richmond premiership player Noah Balta inks mammoth seven-year contract extension
Richmond star Noah Balta has put pen to paper on a mammoth seven-year contract extension, keeping him at the club until the end of 2032.
The premiership winner has become one of the Tigers most important players in recent seasons and was a vital cog in the side's 2020 grand final triumph.
Balta has already surpassed 100 games in the AFL and with his current deal set to expire at the end of next season, Richmond wasted no time locking him up long-term.
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Noah Balta has extended his stay at Richmond. via Getty Images
"I think I am a loyal person, and I want to repay the favour that players like David Astbury, Alex Rance, and Dylan Grimes showed me when I was younger," he said.
"They pushed me to get better, and now I want to be the one helping to drive the next generation. I could not see myself playing anywhere else.
"The hard work that we are about to all put in will make the future highs even sweeter."
Richmond finished in last spot on the ladder this season, with champion Dustin Martin calling it quits and leaving a massive hole in the squad.
But with the news of Balta's renewal, general manager of football Blair Hartley believes the future is bright at Punt Road.
Noah Balta celebrates with retired teammate Dustin Martin. Getty
"Noah is an important player to us with his versatility and ability to give us a powerful aerial option in all areas of the ground," he said.
"He continues to develop his game and leadership credentials, and we look forward to seeing him continue to flourish going forward.
"His development since arriving at the club seven years ago has been terrific, and it is great news for everyone involved with the club that Noah will be a key part of the next generation of Richmond."
