Fitzsimmons joins Workington

Castleford have confirmed that young forward Conor Fitzsimmons will join Workington Town on loan for the 2017 season.

The 18-year-old made his first team debut for the Tigers in 2016, against St Helens, and he has also toured with England’s Academy side in Australia recently.

Moving to Workington will see him link up with Town head coach Dave Clark, who coached Fitzsimmons during his time at the Cumbria RFL Academy.

“I’m really excited to sign Conor,” said Clark.

“He is a model rugby league player who trains hard and looks after himself, as well as being a strong, direct runner is a very skillful rugby league player.

“When I had one of my regular chats with Pete Riding (Castleford Tigers Head of Youth), it became apparent Cas were looking to his further development through regular professional rugby and I jumped at the chance.

“I recently toured with the England Academy in Australia so I know exactly what attributes he can bring to Town next year.

“Not only will he stand out as a talented player in his own right, he will help with our young development players because he has spent last season in a Super League environment. 

“He was always a joy to coach and I look forward to working with him again.”

Fitzsimmons is pleased to have the chance to link up with Clark in Cumbria again.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Dave Clark again,” he said.

“He has very high expectations and my game improved steadily when he was my coach at the Academy.

“This year will be a great way to get regular game time in a very competitive league.

“I’m particularly looking forward to playing in the Workington – Whitehaven derby as I’ve watched so many from the terraces.

“Playing for my home town team will be a great honour and I can’t wait to join up with Jason Mossop who was my coach and teacher at school.”