Jake Bradley, who was Whitehaven’s youngest ever debutant and try-scorer back in 2018, has signed a new deal with the club.
Bradley, now 20, was just 16 years and 330 days when he played against Hemel Stags in March 2018 – and scored.
He impressed on trial back in pre-season in 2018 and made his debut under Carl Forster in the League One home clash on the wing against the Stags.
The former Hensingham amateur became a permanent member of the squad for the 2019 season and has continued to impress with 2021 being his breakthrough season.
After signing the new one-year deal Bradley said: “I’m ready to build on from last season and excited to see how we do this year and I’m also happy to continue playing for my hometown club.”
Head coach Jonty Gorley said: “I’m happy Jake has signed another deal to stay with us next season. He started to show that he’s ready for the challenge of the Championship, especially at the back end of last year.
“He proved he’s going to have a part to play in the squad next season, as he’s turning out to be a good young front-rower. His carries are strong and he’s got good footwork for a big lad.
“Jake is still learning his trade as a middle but if he carries on the way he improved last year, with him still being young, he’ll have a long and successful career at Whitehaven.”
Director Ashley Kilpatrick said: “It’s brilliant to be able to get another local lad signed up for another year at the club. Jake’s been here since he was 16 and has bided his time and been patient.
“I think we saw how good Jake can be last year when he came from the bench for us and scored a couple of tries. The one against Widnes at home was a brilliant effort when he ran a great line off Callum at 9.
“I feel this year could be a massive year for Jake and one where he can really kick on from his performances last year.”
