NEW recruit Joel Thompson's first impressions of St Helens have been more than positive - from the professionalism of the back-to-back champion players through to the whole community's passion for league.

Former Manly packman Thompson has been here the longest of the club's four off-season recruits and has already picked up on how rugby league is such a part of the town’s DNA.

St Helens Star:

Having experienced life in the thick of it at Canberra, St George-Illawarra and Manly, the 32-year-old has a sound base of rugby league knowledge to judge.

And his verdict on his new club so far is pleasing.

He said: “The club is beyond my expectations; the environment, the team and its professionalism.

“The St Helens team, with the squad and talent that they have got in the team, is impressive.

“They are also very well-driven - and they would be a top team back in Australia.

“I can see how hungry they all still are after their success and they want to continue it.

“It is good to come over here and be part of a team that has been back-to-back champions.

“I am looking to bring my style of football to that team.”

St Helens Star:

Thompson arrived before Christmas and immediately engaged with supporters on social media.

He has been taken with how passionate the whole town is about rugby league.

“I have got the sense now of being around the passion within the squad and the community of St Helens.

“Rugby league is part of the DNA here - and I want to embrace that and be a part of it.
"I am learning a lot, even at my age, and being challenged is always healthy as a professional.

St Helens Star:

“I enjoy my inter-action with the fans on Twitter - that is important to have that.

“You are not going to have it forever, but you only have a period of playing pro football so it is important to chat with the fans and I have done that with all of my clubs.

“I also expect the fans to let me know if I am not doing what I need to be doing,” he said.

Pictures copyright Bernard Platt