Halifax boost their back line
Halifax RLFC have raided the Batley Bulldogs for a third time this off-season, capturing winger, Wayne Reittie, whilst also signing up young and talented full back, Ben Heaton from Oldham. Karl Harrison was keen to bring his former employee to the Shay, further enhancing the back line, already full of talent with the likes of Paul White, Steve Tyrer and Rob Worrincy. Whereas Heaton has created a lot of interest in recent months, with several Super League Club’s taking note.
Club director, Ian Croad was happy to capture another two talented youngsters “Wayne’s another example of the kind of player we’re after. He’s young and powerful, and his hard work ethic should go well alongside the likes of Rob (Worrincy) and Paul (White). He’s a good athlete and Karl likes him, so hopefully he’ll help set the Championship on fire next year.”
The winger scored 7 times for the Bulldogs last season and was part of the Batley side that got edged about FAX in the 2011 Play Off game. Whereas Heaton, the Oldham youngster, burst onto the scenes a couple of seasons ago, firstly as a Second Row/Centre, and more recently at full back.
“He’s a very talented youngster and was in Karl’s plans from the start. He’s had attention from Super League this year, and there are several Clubs who’ve shown interest. But he’s excited about what he sees here and we’re delighted to get him on board. He had a great season at Full Back for Oldham, but it was only his first year in that position, so hopefully we can see him improve even more in the coming months.” Said Croad.
Ben won the Championship 1 Player of the month award in July and has been impressing supporters and coaches alike all season. Still only 21 years of age, he will be looking to replicate the form of recent Halifax Full Backs (all brought to the Club either at a young age or from a lower league Club) Shad Royston, Miles Greenwood and Ryan Fieldhouse.
Wayne and Ben become the sixth and seventh three quarters to sign for 2012, but signs show there’s more still to come. “We’re getting there,” Continued Croad, “but there’s still some work to be done. We’re active, I can say that much. We’re talking to our own players, and those outside of the Club. Karl has a vision for the next year, and he knows what he wants the team to look like. It should be a great squad by the time we get finished.”