Barrow Raiders have signed half-back Adam Jackson on a one-year deal ahead of the 2024 Betfred Championship season.
Amidst an injury crisis towards the back end of last season, Jackson first arrived at the club on dual-registration from amateur side Barrow Island in July.
He made his Raiders debut at the end of the month, in an outstanding 14-10 victory at Odsal against Bradford Bulls.
Jackson went on to make six appearances in total last season, scoring his first try for the club against Newcastle Thunder in the penultimate game.
The 30-year-old joins another of last season’s new faces from the local amateur ranks, Tom Wilkinson, in signing professional terms with the Raiders ahead of 2024.
“I am delighted to have signed with the club I’ve grown up watching and supporting all my life. Everyone who knows me knows how much it means to finally be given the chance to play for Barrow,” Jackson said.
“I’ve had some time to reflect on the back end of last season and have watched the games back and identified where I can improve.
“I know what I need to do to keep getting better each game. It was definitely an eye-opener playing against ex-Super League/NRL players, but it was a challenge I enjoyed.
“It is a huge step up from amateur level, mainly due to the speed and physicality of the game. My biggest goal is to be in the 17-man squad every week and enjoy testing myself against the best players in this division.
“A more personal aim is to get bigger, fitter and stronger. I’m looking forward to working hard and giving it my all in pre-season with this fantastic group of lads.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “This deal for Adam is testament to the hard work he has put in since first arriving at the club on dual-registration.
“He has already shown real leadership qualities which will be important for us moving forward, and he adds further depth to our creative ranks.”
