Austin extends stay at Swinton
Ben Austin being presented with his match shirt by Manchester United ace Chris Smalling last season
Prop forward Ben Austin has signed a contract extension with Swinton Lions for the 2018 campaign.
Austin will enter his fourth year with the club after coming through the Academy at Wigan Warriors and was handed a professional deal with the Super League giants but failed to make a first team appearance.
He then moved to the Lions and made his debut in 2015 against Hemel Stages and has since made 77 appearances, scoring six tries.
The 22-year-old scored a crucial try in helping the Lions avoid relegation last season against local rivals Oldham Roughyeds and has become a fan favourite at Heywood Road since his arrival from Wigan.
And head coach Stuart Littler is pleased to have Austin in his pack for 2018.
He said: “I am delighted Ben has decided to continue his promising career with us.
“He has really developed well over the past three years and he is a tough, uncompromising forward, who only knows one direction.
“Ben is a good trainer and always adapts well to our coaching sessions. He is well-liked character in our dressing room and he has really bought into the club’s new vision.
“I am expecting more progression from Ben and a massive season in 2018.”