Tee Ritson is going back to Barrow Raiders on a permanent two-year deal.
He’s spent the bulk of the current Championship season on loan from St Helens.
The Thai international first joined the Raiders in 2018 from Newcastle Thunder and went on to average nearly a try per game during his first spell, scoring 70 times in 73 appearances.
Such form saw one of the Betfred Championship’s hottest properties catch the eye of Betfred Super League side St Helens, who signed Ritson on an initial season-long loan before making the move permanent in October 2023.
He scored three tries in 26 appearances for Saints, all of which came during his first season at the club.
Born in Thailand, he was raised in Maryport where he began his amateur career before signing for Workington Town.
The 29-year-old signed for Workington Town in 2014 and over the next three seasons played 39 games, scoring 13 tries.
He then went on loan to Newcastle Thunder for the 2018 season, scoring 18 tries in 22 games.
Ritson first joined Barrow for the 2019 season and has then had two years with Saints which included nine games and three tries on dual registration with Swinton Lions.
The move back to Barrow has been made possible thanks to the support of the Blue & White Knights consortium, whose continued financial input has helped the club strengthen significantly over recent seasons.
Ritson told the Barrow website: “I’m delighted to be signing for the Raiders. I’ve really enjoyed my time back on loan here this year, and I’m grateful to everyone at the club and to all the fans for welcoming me back with open arms.
“I’m at a point in my career now where I just want to be playing regularly and enjoying my rugby, and that’s exactly what I’ve been doing this past year.
“I’m gutted that my season has been abruptly cut short, but I’ll be doing everything I can to get myself in the best shape possible so I can hit the ground running when the time comes.
“It’s exciting to be a part of this group once again. I’m hoping the knowledge and experience I’ve gained along the way will benefit the team, and I’m really looking forward to ripping in with everyone.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “Everyone at the club is delighted to confirm that, thanks to the incredible support of the Blue & White Knights, Tee Ritson has agreed a deal to remain at the club for the next two seasons.
“Without the Knights’ fundraising and commitment, this would not have been possible. Their hard work and passion continues to make a huge difference to the club and to our playing squad.
“Since returning this year, Tee has immediately felt at home and reminded us all of his talent with a series of spectacular tries.
“Already crossing the line 13 times, he is perfectly suited to our style of play, and we believe it brings out the very best in him.
“Sadly, injury has brought his season to a premature end, but we know he will be back next year, stronger than ever – entertaining supporters, scoring tries and helping the club win games.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “Tee needs no introduction, and this move is one we’ve been excited to announce for quite some time.
“He rightly earned a chance in the Betfred Super League ahead of the 2023 season. At Championship level, he continues to be one of the most explosive players with ball-in-hand.
“The signing of Tee is a tremendous coup and a real statement of intent heading towards the 2026 season.
“Signing a player of Tee’s calibre wouldn’t have been possible without the financial support of the Blues & White Knights, who continue to play a major role in helping us assemble a competitive squad at this level.”
