North Wales Crusaders add St Helens youngster

Josh McAllister
North Wales Crusaders

A Betfred match ball at the zip world stadium

North Wales Crusaders have announced the signing of former St Helens youngster Owen Blackwood for their 2022 League 1 season.

The winger will experience his first taste of senior rugby league with Crusaders in 2022.

The youngster came through the academy system at Super League champions St Helens and has represented England at youth level.

He’ll join a number of other players at the club who’ve come through the same system at Saints, including Germany’s youngest ever captain, Brad Billsborough. 

North Wales Crusaders made the League 1 play-offs in 2021, before falling to a 34-48 home defeat to Doncaster. 

Experienced winger Patrick Ah Van also recently committed his future to the club for the upcoming campaign.

“I’ve been working hard in pre-season”

On his move, Blackwood said: “I can’t wait for the matches to start.

“I know it’s probably going to be a lot different physically as I’ll be playing against men, but I’m looking forward to testing myself.

“Personally, I just want to get in, rip in and see what I can help the club achieve. I know we finished third last year and that’s one of the things that made me want to join.

“When I met up with Muzza (Anthony Murray, head coach), he said the fans are great and they’ll back you whether you win or lose.

“I’ve been working hard in pre-season and, when the chance comes, I want to try and play week in, week out.

“Playing for England were great experiences. Going over to Australia and playing at the other side of the world was a proud moment for me.”

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