Exciting young forward, 18-year-old Finn McMillan, had signed his first professional contract with Barrow Raiders.
The deal runs until the end of the 2026 season and the Raiders have fought off interest from an un-named Betfred Super League club to secure his services on a permanent basis.
The second-rower had initially been part of the first team set-up on a dual-registration basis alongside his commitments for local amateur side Roose Pioneers.
He began playing for Roose aged six and has spent more than a decade with the club. McMillan subsequently linked up with Barrow’s development side, Furness Raiders, at the age of 16.
Capable of playing as a centre or back-rower, he impressed the club’s hierarchy with his performances in the College League and has been training with the first team ever since.
He was actually handed his Raiders debut against Oldham in the Betfred Challenge Cup earlier this year and the young forward will continue to be guided by his father, Paul. He is coach of Roose Pioneers and Furness Raiders, and now part of head coach Paul Crarey’s backroom team.
“It is a dream come true to officially join Barrow Raiders. I’ve always wanted to sign for the club, ever since I was a youngster,” said McMillan.
“My dad has coached me from six to 18 so he has taught me everything I know, and I wouldn’t be the player I am without him.
“I’m hard-working and eager to learn, and my goals for the rest of the season would be to hopefully play in a few more matches. I know I need to be patient, and my time will eventually come.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “Finn has come through the community game, impressed all our coaching staff while training with our first team squad and played in a couple of the pre-season friendlies.
“He is well aware of how much hard work is required to make it at Championship level but is more than willing and able to put the work in to succeed.
“This move wouldn’t have been possible without the fantastic work of the Raiders Super Lotto, who have helped get the deal over the line and continue to provide great support to Furness Raiders.
“It’s also a massive pat on the back to the academy coaching staff, who put in massive amounts of time coaching our development team. We hope there will continue to be a long line of future Barrow Raiders players coming through our own systems.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “Finn has all the attributes needed to be an exceptional rugby league player.
“He is still young and has a long journey ahead of him, but the hunger and desire he has shown to be part of our group has been really impressive, and we are confident that he will enjoy his best years at the Raiders.
“It is little surprise that a player of his quality has caught the eye of Super League clubs, but for Finn to choose to stay at the Raiders to continue his development is a sign of his confidence in the opportunities we are trying to provide for the best local talent.”
