Whitehaven offer deal to amateur star

Whitehaven have handed forward Ethan Kelly a deal for the 2019 season after a successful trial period.

Kelly impressed during his time on trial with Haven, playing against Newcastle Thunder in pre-season as well as starring in their Challenge Cup win over Red Star Belgrade.

He has represented Cumbrian outfit Millom at amateur level but will now make the step up to semi-professional rugby league.

On his Whitehaven deal, Kelly said: “I’m really excited to be signing my first professional contract and testing myself at a higher level.

“I’ve enjoyed everything at the club so far, playing against Newcastle then going on to play against Oldham and having the two tries disallowed and picking up the League Express man of the match was just an amazing feeling.

“I’m looking forward to the season ahead now.”

Whitehaven coach Gary Charlton commented: “Ethan has really impressed us as coaches what he really does well is to run hard into the defence and he has a quick play-the-ball.

“We will work hard on his fitness, so he does need more minutes on the field and that will come the more he trains with us.

“He has really fitted in well and we are pleased to have a young local prop with loads of potential on board.”