Tigers award two more teens with full deals
Monday, 29 Sep 2008 10:39
Castleford Tigers award two academy players with full-time deals
Castleford Tigers have awarded two further academy players, Jonathan Walker and Jamie Cording, with full-time contracts for the 2009 Super League season.
Walker, a talented 17-year-old prop who won the most improved player of the year award for the academy in 2008, has been handed a two-year contract.
And 18-year-old Cording, who plays primarily as a centre, has been given a one-year deal following his excellent form in the juniors, for whom he won the player of the year prize.
The two youngsters will join Joe Arundel, who signed a full-time contract last week, in training with the first team.
And although they are unlikely to see a great deal of time on the pitch in Super League next season, both players will be expected to contribute to the squad when injuries inevitably cause selection headaches for head coach Terry Matterson.
Castleford chief executive Richard Wright said the two players' progression to become first-team squad members has been pleasing.
"Jonathan and Jamie are another two exciting young players who, if they are prepared to work hard, have the potential to become Super League players," he said.
"Both have had impressive seasons in the junior academy and have earned the opportunity.
"They will be training full time and ready to step into the front-line senior squad if called upon."