Cornwall RLFC snap up former Castleford youngster
Cornwall RLFC have announced the signing of former Castleford youngster Jack Ray for the 2022 League 1 campaign.
Ray, 23, started his rugby career at his local club Oulton Raiders before joining the academy set-up at Super League side Castleford.
He remained at the Jungle until 2019 when he joined Dewsbury. During the 2019 campaign, Ray spent time on loan at Coventry Bears.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic struck, Ray had moved to Hunslet before the pandemic cut his time short at the South Leeds Stadium.
He then left Yorkshire to embark on a different career path in the forces and is currently stationed in Cornwall.
Jack Ray relishing chance to link up with Cornwall RLFC
“After what’s been going on over the past couple of years and having time out of the game at a professional level, I will try and pick up where I left off to help this team,” he said.
“I thought when covid hit that my rugby league days over by moving down to Cornwall. But when a club like this opens up 20 minutes from where I’m staying, it is a massive opportunity and too good to miss. I will be going out there and giving it everything.
“It is a brand-new challenge and everything starting off from the ground up is completely different to anything I’ve done before.
“It is good being out of the heartlands because we are a new package and no one will know what to expect from us. Hopefully we will shock a few people by starting the season strong and finish strong.”
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Neil Kelly: ‘It was a no-brainer’
On his latest addition, head coach Neil Kelly commented: “It was a no-brainer to sign Jack.
“He is a player that has been raised in the rugby league heartlands. Jack came through a very good academy set-up at Castleford. He has also gained experience playing in the Championship and League 1.
“When I found out that he was now based in Cornwall, it made perfect sense for Jack to join us. We can help him get his career started again. His experience, by being able to play anywhere in the pack, will be invaluable during the season.
“In Jack’s case, like the rest of our forwards, I will almost be asking them to take the numbers off their backs and play anywhere in the pack. Apart from the hooking position, our forwards will need to be versatile and adding Jack to the squad strengthens that no end.”
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