Castleford bolster forward pack with signing of Bailey Dawson

Castleford coach Lee Radford has strengthened his options in the pack for 2023 with the capture of young forward Bailey Dawson on a one-year deal, with the option of a further year.

The 19-year-old came through the ranks at the City of Hull Academy before being picked up by Hull KR where he played in the academy and reserves.

Dawson enjoyed a spell on loan in League 1 with Midlands Hurricanes at the back end of thsi eyar.

Radford said: “It’s a fantastic opportunity for him and I really hope we can give him everything he needs to progress, and Bailey can give everything to move forward with this club.”

Bailey Dawson to combine rugby with university

Alongside playing for the Tigers, Dawson will be studying at University Centre Leeds where the club’s Foundation’s link with the university offers young players the chance to study a degree alongside their playing career.

Dawson said: “I got given the opportunity to go to university and study a sports course.

“It’s really beneficial to young players to get an education as well. Getting a degree whilst training is perfect, it’s an ideal situation. Rugby careers aren’t long lasting so it’s perfect for me to go down that route and gain an education.”

The promising back-rower pinpointed one Castleford player in particular that he’s looking forward to be working alongside.

Dawson added: “Kenny Edwards is a player I’d like to play with. He skips around a lot and he’s kind of a free back-rower and I like that a lot.

“He plays the game hard so he’s definitely someone I’ll be looking up to and to learn from.”

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