Castleford Tigers trio of James Clare, Ben Johnson and Charlie Martin handed contracts - Rugby
On Friday, October 7, Castleford Tigers gave out three full time professional contracts to James Clare, Ben Johnson and Charlie Martin.
Clare and Johnson will begin their training with the first team, later this month, whereas Martin will join in with the club’s AASE group that will have to wait until May. The player will complete his initial education their before joining the first team
squad.
While talking about the latest happenings within the franchise, Ian Millward, the new head coach of Tigers said, “The club have made big statements with youth in recent years and it is obvious the club is under pinned by youth development.” He added that
the latest recruits are the result of the Head of Youth Steve Gill’s efforts. Players have been identified for their ability to progress further in the field of rugby and their ability to achieve the maximum on the rugby field.
According to the coach, the reason for selection of all three players varied. James has been picked up for his height and speed, which are also good pluses for the winger’s position. Ben too has been picked up for his great speed. The coach explained Charlie’s
pick and said, “Charlie is a young forward; I don’t think he will be pigeon-holed as a front-rower. I think the modern forward has to be a bit more multi-skilled and also be flexible. I think he’s got that potential. Size can come into it, it’s an area we
can target and he certainly ticks that box. He is also very strong in collision.”
Millward admitted that the trio are genuinely talented and hold a promising future ahead with the franchise, for which the Tigers’ fans should be happy.
Hills is pleased to see the junior talent climb their way up to reach the Super League berth and he thanked all the junior clubs for their hard work to prepare such high quality players.
He further added that the three players have come a long way in a very short span of time, which is amazing in itself. For that he thanked the junior level coaches, Gary Thornton and his assistants Gary Burnett and Chris Chapman.
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