In a monumental commitment to Richmond Football Club, utility Noah Balta has signed a seven-year contract extension, securing his place at Punt Road until the end of the 2032 season.
The deal highlights the club's faith in the 24-year-old's versatility and consistent performance across various roles on the field, as well as Balta's own commitment to Richmond's rebuild, which has seen several exit the door.
Balta, who was initially set to come out of contract at the end of the 2025 season, expressed his loyalty and pride in continuing his journey with Richmond.
“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,” Balta shared.
“They pushed me to get better, and now I want to be the one helping to drive the next generation. I couldn't see myself playing anywhere else.”
Renowned for his power, strength, and athleticism, Balta has become a core figure at Richmond since being drafted with the 25th overall pick in 2017.
The 194cm premiership player has been a reliable asset, excelling at both ends of the ground this season with notable performances such as his three-goal, 23-disposal game in the season opener against Carlton and a commanding display in the Round 14 victory over Adelaide with 20 disposals, 12 marks, and seven intercepts.
Richmond's General Manager of Football Talent, Blair Hartley, highlighted Balta's significant impact on the team.
“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,” Hartley said.
“He continues to develop his game and leadership credentials, and we look forward to seeing him continue to flourish going forward.”
Since his debut in 2019, Balta has become an integral part of Richmond's line-up. After an impressive breakout season in 2020, he played a key role in Richmond's premiership win, establishing himself as a capable key defender.
While he has primarily found a home in defence, Balta has displayed some talent as a dual ruck-forward as well, adapting seamlessly to fill Richmond's tactical needs.
For the Tigers, the signing is a major move toward a new era, with Balta now one of the central figures of the club's hopeful rise back to the premiership contention following the achievements of their recent past.