Leeds forward Bodene Thompson makes Championship move for 2023

Correspondent 25 Oct 2022 5:07 PM

Leeds Rhinos forward Bodene Thompson has signed a one-year deal with Bradford Bulls for the 2023 Championship season.

The 34-year-old featured in the 2022 Grand Final defeat to St Helens at Old Trafford.

He made 48 appearances for the Rhinos, scoring four tries. Thompson originally made the move from the NRL with Leigh in 2018, and has also featured for Warrington and Toronto in the second division, winning promotion.

Bodene Thompson: The history and fanbase really attracted me to this club.

Thompson said: “It’s such a proud moment for me and my family to have my future sorted and sign for a historic club in Bradford Bulls.

“We didn’t know if we were going to stay here but after speaking with Brian (Noble) and Rohan (Smith), my mind was made up where I wanted to go.

“I’m really excited to get going here and see what it’s all about. The club has such a proud history and I’m excited to be a part of the next chapter.

“When I was in the NRL, I remember Bradford being one of the dominant forces in rugby league and they still get good crowds and that attracted me to this club. The history and fanbase really attracted me to this club.

“I can’t wait to get started and work with Mark (Dunning) and all of the lads and get to know them all. I want to help the younger lads with my experience in the game and help them to learn, ensure that they’re always backing themselves and playing without fear.

“I’m sure that I’ll be bringing my experience to this squad, with featuring in Grand Finals and the lessons I’ve learnt in Super League, but also with playing in the Championship previously, I know all about this league.

“My message to the fans would be, that I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to play for such a historic club. I’ll always wear my heart on my sleeve and never let them down.”

The club had published the story on their website, before falling to technical problems.