Bulldogs star recruit Dallin Watene-Zelezniak made little secret of his reasons for signing on at Belmore as he fronted the media this week, insisting the club’s culture was a key factor in his decision to make the move from Penrith.
A well-known family man, Watene-Zelezniak made it clear that the club’s family values were the outstanding factor in his decision, and that he had little hesitation in making the move despite where the Bulldogs currently sit on the ladder.
“Moving here was the best decision for my family and I.” said Watene-Zelezniak “I don’t really look at the ladder when making a decision, I looked at the values they have here and family. The ladder was definitely not one that came into the decision I made.”
"I want to bring a never give up attitude"
The New Zealand Kiwis captain also made little secret of his admiration for coach Dean Pay, believing his new boss is the man to help him reach another level in his game, whilst expressing his excitement at the competition for places within the squad.
“I looked at the coach that Dean Pay is, and I really felt that I could take my game to another level through him and through the boys here.” he said. “It’s always good to have competition (for spots), it brings out the best in you. I know it’s brought out the best in me when there’s people that are coming for my spot.”
It’s clear the feeling is mutual between player and coach, with Pay selecting his newest recruit at centre for this weekend’s clash with the Roosters at the SCG in the hope that he can provide the X-factor and set up a win against the Premiership favourites.
