Scorpions sign former Leeds forward

South Wales have signed former Leeds academy forward George Clarke for the remainder of the 2013 season. 

Clarke, 20, was highly rated by England’s Jamie Peacock during his six years with the Rhinos and he spent the 2012 season in Australia playing for Northern New South Wales League side Casino RSM Cougars. 

On returning to the UK, he signed for Pennine League Premier Division club Queens, who he helped to finish second in their winter 2012-13 season. He has more recently been playing for the club he grew up with, National Conference Division One side East Leeds. He has also represented Yorkshire at various junior levels. 

Scorpions coach Dave Clark said: “George is a very talented forward and we’re really pleased to have signed him as we have been looking to strengthen our existing pack. He was highly rated during his time at Leeds Rhinos and he’s now looking for a new opportunity to progress in his career. He’ll get that at the Scorpions and I’m sure he’ll be a great asset to us.” 

Clarke is expected to make his debut this Sunday when the Scorpions take on Oxford at The Gnoll in Neath.