Busy day of recruitment in the Midlands
Midlands Hurricanes have announced the signings of Jordan Bull from Sheffield, and Tom Blakey from NCL side West Hull for the 2022 season.
Bull initially started his career in the Steel City, before signing an academy contract at Castleford. He then returned to Sheffield ahead of the 2021 season.
He made three appearances for the club, and also spent time out on loan at both Doncaster and Coventry. Bull also scored on his only Coventry appearance, in a 50-22 defeat against Rochdale.
Talking to the club website about the move, Bull said: “The rebrand and opportunity to represent a new team is exciting.
“The club has the opportunity to expand and grow with the visions of the coach and back room staff is really exciting. They have a clear path for what they want for the team.
“I want to achieve a play off position and push as many teams as possible. Prove doubters wrong and show them that we can beat the favourites in this league.”
Meanwhile, Blakey played for Hull KR at Under-19s level in 2015. He has since been playing for West Hull in the NCL.
He said: “I am looking forward to the new challenge of being back in a professional environment and aid the club to a successful season.
“I want to give my all for the team in this coming season and aim to push the club into playoff position by the end of the season. I believe I can bring some aggression and drive for the team in the middle.”
Former Coventry junior also joins
The club have also announced the signing of former Coventry junior James Phillips. Recently, he has been playing rugby union for Lutterworth.
He added: “I’m really grateful to Richard and the Hurricanes for the opportunity to develop my game.
“I’m determined to grasp this opportunity. I’m eager to learn and be part of the team that has the ability compete in every league match.
“I think the Midlands Hurricanes are at the start of something very special. To be part of the first playing squad is fantastic news.
“Just to train with the squad Richard is building here at the Midlands Hurricanes is an amazing opportunity. I hope to be able to push myself to compete for a place in the match day team.”
Pair also commit to Midlands
Finally, the Hurricanes have also announced Harry Kaufman and Brad Sheridan have also committed to the club.
Kuafman, who has been with Coventry since 2017, and before they entered League One, said: “Although I enjoyed representing Coventry Bears I can’t wait to get started with the Midlands Hurricanes hopefully expanding the reach to new areas in the Midlands.
“The vision the club has made it an easy decision to stick with them having started back on the journey in 2011 back in NCL Division Three. This season, the minimum aim to be the League 1 playoffs.
“With one session already ticked off the quality was high and I’m excited to be part of the squad that will push on this season.”
Meanwhile, Sheridan, who has represented Coventry since 2018, added: “I’m delighted to have signed for another year and to be part of the rebrand next year.
“We had some good results last year so I am looking forward to building on this next year and for the results to be more constant especially with the squad that’s been put together this year.”