London Broncos bolster squad ahead of 2022 season

London Broncos have announced a handful of player signings ahead of their part-time 2022 season in the Championship.

Head coach Jermaine Coleman has added Ireland international Declan O’Donnell to his squad, fresh from winning promotion to the Championship with Workington. He has signed a two-year deal with the club.

He said: “It was a really big decision for me to sign for London Broncos, I think the main factors in signing were to take on a new challenge that excites me.”

“I think I will bring a lot to the club next year, fans can expect me to never leave anything out on the pitch and will see straight away I am willing to do anything for the cause and for my teammates.”

Australian hooker Dean Parata has also made the switch to the capital from Featherstone Rovers on a two-year deal.

The former West Tigers junior has had spells in the British game with Barrow and Toulouse, and has represented Italy on seven occasions. 

He said “I’ve been a fan of what the Broncos have been doing for a while now and jumped at the chance to join the club. I think I can help out a few of the younger boys and I have no doubt we will compete, and compete well, next season.

“I’d like to bring a bit of experience to the squad both on and off the field, especially with the young halves who I can help to learn to manage a game.”

MORE SIGNINGS

Experienced back-row Rhys Curran has signed a contract extension with the club for the 2022 season, while he will also join the club’s coaching staff. The forward joined the Broncos in 2020 following a move from Toulouse where he played more than 100 games for the french outfit.

Rob Oakley has committed his future to the club by signing a contract extension for 2022. Oakley, a product of the Eastern Rhinos rugby league club, made his debut in 2021, and also featured for London Skolars on loan. 

The Broncos have also handed half-back Oli Leyland a new two-year deal following his breakthrough season in 2021, having progressed through the club’s academy system.

Dan Coates makes the move from Newcastle Thunder on a two-year deal, while Iliess Macani and Lewis Bienek return for 2022.