Featherstone Rovers have announced the signings of Michael Channing and Colton Roche, with both joining the club on two-year deals ahead of next season.
Channing joins up from local rivals and Super League stalwarts Castleford Tigers, where he spent two seasons having previously been with London Broncos. He is currently part of the Wales squad competing in the European Championships.
“I’m really looking forward to joining Rovers and their ambitions match my own,” he said.
“It’s a new challenge for me and one that really excites. I’m coming from a full time environment but I hear it is a tough challenge in the Kingstone Press Championship and it’s very physical which is something I will enjoy and will bring the best out of me.
“It’s a different challenge for me but I will bring a lot of energy to the side and I like to be vocal in both attack and defence.
“We are assembling a good squad and I want to be part of getting Featherstone back to where they belong and I can’t wait to meet the boys and get started in pre-season.”
Featherstone Rovers coach Jon Sharp said: “He’s a signing who will add plenty of strike to our three-quarter line. At 23 years of age, he’s got his best years ahead of him and can develop further at Rovers.
“He’s got pace and terrific footwork which makes him quite evasive and I think this will bring tries to the team. He consistently causes problems for opponents whether it’s finishing off chances or creating openings for his teammates. He is an ambitious character and is very excited about the opportunity to play with us next year and beyond.”
Second-rower Colton Roche has also put pen to paper on a two-year contract at Featherstone and is equally as excited to be returning to the club.
“This is a fresh start for me and I’m very excited about working under Jon Sharp,” he said.
“The facilities at Rovers with the Centre of Excellence, the stadium and the passionate supporters make it a good environment for rugby league. I’ve been at York City Knights playing Kingstone Press League 1 rugby league and I’ve become more confident as a player and want to be part of helping Featherstone achieve their goals and can’t wait to get started in November.”
Sharp added: “Colton will bring size to our pack and is very powerful and aggressive. He’ll bring some strike to our second row and our play around the edges. I’m looking forward to working with Colton and I know he is excited at the prospect of playing for us, I’m really pleased with both signings and what they will bring to our squad.”
