Hull hooker Denive Balmforth makes Championship loan move
Photo: Steve Flynn/News Images
Championship club Newcastle Thunder have signed young hooker Denive Balmforth on loan from Super League outfit Hull.
The 19-year-old has made four appearances for Hull since joining the club in March last year from Warrington.
Balmforth represented Yorkshire Academy in a War of the Roses Origin clash in 2021.
Balmforth said: “I’m excited to have signed for Thunder on loan.
“It’s an opportunity for me to improve my game and I’m sure I’ll learn a lot from my time here.
“I’ve only joined up with the squad this week but there’s a great atmosphere between the lads and I can’t wait to help the team challenge in the Championship.”
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Chris Thorman delighted to welcome Denive Balmforth to Newcastle
Hull and Newcastle have entered a dual-registration partnership for the 2023 campaign.
Newcastle Thunder head coach said: “We’re really excited to have Denive join up with the squad.
“He can play in the halves; he can play 13. He’s a really fit-set hooker, that can hit hard too.
“He will definitely compliment the nines we’ve got, so we’re really excited by that.
“An added bonus would be that the loan signing will further strengthen our links with Hull FC on top of the dual-registration agreement announced earlier in the month.”
The dual-registration partnership will allow the movement of players between the two clubs to provide extra playing opportunities.
Newcastle have returned to a part-time model for their 2023 season, having previously operated full-time. Thorman takes charge for the first time this year, having made the move from Workington Town.
Hull players will be available for Thunder when not selected by head coach Tony Smith. Reserves and academy players will also available for selection at Kingston Park.
The partnership will also allow some of Newcastle’s young talents gain the opportunity to train with the Super League outfit.
Thunder get their Championship campaign away at Swinton on Sunday, February 5.