Whitehaven have announced two more additions to their squad for the 2023 Championship season.
One is a new face to the LEL Arena while the other is a more familiar one – Josh Rourke, from Salford, and Perry Singleton, who finished last season at the LEL Arena.
Rourke, 22, who joins from Salford Red Devils, made his debut for them against Warrington Wolves towards the end of the 2022 Super League campaign in the full back role.
He came through the reserve system at the AJ Bell Stadium.
Head coach Jonty Gorley said: “Getting Josh signed was done fairly sharply, about a week from hearing about him to securing his signature.
“He’s been playing at Salford reserves, mainly at full back and made his SL debut last season. We have done some digging on him even though he looked good on his clips and the people we spoke to had nothing but praise for him.
“They said he has a big future in the game so I’m excited to see how he goes. He’s tall and rangy and has got plenty of speed, while he’s another player who can kick goals too.”
Director Ashley Kilpatrick said “I’m thrilled to get Josh over the line for us after making his debut last year for Salford.
“Speaking to people about Josh he’s very talented and we have beaten a number of his clubs for his signature.
“We would like to thank Josh’s agent Lee Mossop who of course is well known in Whitehaven for making his happen. Once again a big shout to the Vice Presidents for helping securing Josh’s services for next season.”
Singleton will remain at the LEL Arena for the 2023 campaign having joined the club half way through the 2022 campaign from Workington.
He made 17 appearances for the club last year scoring two tries, showing his versatility across the field by playing in a number of positions.
Head coach Jonty Gorley said: “Getting a player like Pez over the line is great for me. He’s really tough and just gets on with his job, as a no nonsense type of player.
“Since he’s been with us he has played middle, back-row and centre, although I think his best position for me is in the middle, because that’s his type of game.
“Another quality he’s got is that he talks really well when it’s needed during games and before the games and at half time. Pez is a great addition to the squad.”
Director Kilpatrick said: “It’ll be great to have Pez in for a full season. People will have seen how versatile he is last year playing a number of positions. He is a leader, winner and is well respected by all of the squad so it’s great to have him on board for another season.”
