Castleford sign half-back from Hull for 2023

Castleford have signed young half-back Jacob Hookem from fellow Super League club Hull on a one-year deal, with the option of a further year.

The 20-year-old made five appearances for hometown club Hull after making his first team debut in 2021. He has also enjoyed time on loan in the Championship with Bradford and Whitehaven.

Hookem said: “I’m really happy to be here! The opportunity came up and I’m excited to be able to progress here at Castleford.

“I was able to get a few Super League games under my belt last year at Hull so my aim is to keep progressing and kick on to become a regular at the top level.

“First of all, I want to have a good pre-season and impress Radders (Lee Radford) and the coaches and hopefully I can push on and get some first team games.

“I’ll aim to hit the ground running during the pre-season games if I get the opportunity and I’m looking forward to playing in front of the Cas fans.”

Castleford coach looking forward to working with Jacob Hookem again

Tigers coach Lee Radford is more than aware of Hookem’s talents, having seen him play in the youth ranks at Hull.

Radford said: “He’s a young half, that I’m pleased to get over the line.

“With Danny’s (Richardson) injury last year and Callum (McLelland) not being available for us last year, Jacob will be quite high up in the pecking order.

“Hopefully, he can come to the club and develop working alongside the likes of Jacob Miller and Gareth Widdop. There are some senior blokes that can help him develop.”

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