Former St Helens hooker on the move again
Former St Helens hooker Josh Eaves has signed for Swinton after pulling out of a move to Whitehaven.
Eaves, 25, agreed his release from the Cumbrian club earlier this week due to a change in his working circumstances.
He spent the 2022 season on a full-time deal with Newcastle Thunder, making 27 appearances, before departing when they reverted to part-time status.
Swinton coach Allan Coleman said: “I was delighted when Josh became available because he is someone who commands a lot of respect on the field.
“His approach to how the game should be played will be an asset to us, as he is a very talented hooker and has played in some quality environments. Competition at number nine is now very strong at Swinton and I’m very happy with all of the options we have in that position.”
Swinton earned immediate promotion back to the Championship via the League 1 play-offs last season.
Eaves previously played 23 games for Whitehaven on loan from St Helens back in 2018, and has also turned out for Leigh and Wakefield during his career.
A Whitehaven club statement said: “The club are disappointed and did not want to lose Josh but understand his reasons for the release. When Josh signed for the club he was starting a teaching degree at university and his placement made him available for training.
“Upon returning for pre season training Josh informed the coaching staff that he would struggle to make any further training sessions due to his placement being changed after the Christmas period.
“After some deliberation with Josh and the coaching staff it was agreed by all parties the best thing to do was agree to the release.”
Eaves made his Super League debut for Saints against London Broncos in July 2019.
