Atkin agrees move to Hull KR
Hull KR have signed Swinton’s promising young half-back Chris Atkin on a two-year deal from next season.
The former Widnes academy graduate has been a stand-out performer in the Championship this season and boasts the longest scoring record in the sport, with the goal-kicker notching points in each of his side’s last 26 matches.
The 24-year-old has signed a full-time contract with the Robins and will link up with the club for the start of pre-season training in November.
Head coach Tim Sheens said: “Chris is a good young player who I think has the ability to improve in a full-time environment.
“We’ve been impressed by what we’ve seen of him this season, especially in the two matches we’ve played against Swinton. His game management is good, as is his kicking game, and his try assist record is very strong.
“He’s got a lot of potential and we’re confident he can handle the step up if we do move up to Super League.
“It’s important that we build strength in the half-back position moving forward, with Jamie Ellis and Jordan Abdull’s loan situation and Matty Marsh recovering from a long-term injury.
“Chris also has the versatility to play at full-back like a lot of halves in the modern game can do, which is another string to his bow.”
Atkin added: “Hull KR is a massive club and as soon as their interest was mentioned to me by my agent, I knew I would want to come here.
“I’m really excited to be joining and playing in front of the fans, who turn out in numbers week in, week out.
“I wanted to have a chat with Tim about what his plans for me were and we’ve had a couple of really good conversations over the last few weeks. Everything seems very positive and I can’t wait to come in for next year.
“Growing up I always wanted to be a full-time player and test myself at the highest level, which hopefully I can do with Hull KR.
“I know it’s going to be a tough transition making the step up and settling into a new club, but I’ll enjoy that challenge and hopefully I can continue to impress and keep developing.
“Credit to Swinton as well – they gave me an opportunity and helped me get to this position and now I’m excited about testing myself at the next level.
“Swinton want to stay in this league and that’s something I’m going to be focused on as well. I want to finish this season strongly and I owe it to Swinton for all they’ve done for me to stay focused on that goal until the end of the year and keep them in the Championship before I join Hull KR.”
