Utility back Erhan Bickerdike has signed a new contract with Workington Town for 2024.
Ethan is now entering his fifth season as a Workington Town player and is approaching 50 games for the club since making the move from Millom ARLFC.
Ethan has been with Workington Town since late 2019 when he initially came on trial with a view to signing professionally.
He debuted away at Whitehaven in the Ike Southward Memorial Trophy and went on to secure a contract heading into the 2020 season, ended by the COVID pandemic.
A player comfortable at wing, centre and full back he can also play in the halves and a diligent and dedicated trainer with a strong desire to improve Ethan forced his way into the side towards the end of the promotion season in 2021 and gained even more experience being a regular at centre in the Championship in 2022.
Last season saw Ethan play 17 times and score seven tries as he put together another fantastic season.
Director of rugby Gary Murdock said: “It is great to have Ethan back on board for 2024, Ethan’s versatility was very important last season, but as his career develops he’s looking to cement down one position next season.
“Still only 22 but with already a huge amount of experience, we are expecting Ethan to kick on next season again and be heading up the try scoring charts.”
Ethan said “I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season. We’ve added some quality to the squad, so hopefully we can build on what we started last year.”
Workington Town have also completed the re-signing of former Distington forward Liam McNicholas.
He becomes the 20th player on Workington’s books so far ahead of the 2024 campaign.
McNicholas, who arrived from Distington last winter, played 12 games in his first season as a professional and established himself with his reliability, committed and all action style.
It was an approach which endeared him to the Town supporters and Town feel there is much more to come from him.
Murdock said: “Following an impressive first season after coming from the community game, we are delighted to have Liam back on board for 2024.
“We are confident that with another pre-season under his belt, Liam will again be a key part of the team in 2024.’
