OLDHAM have confirmed the signing of hooker Reiss Butterworth from Sheffield Eagles on a two-year contract.
The 27-year-old has spent the last two seasons with the Eagles after previous spells at Bradford Bulls, where he came through the Academy, Huddersfield Giants, Dewsbury Rams and Hull KR.
He joins an Oldham side aiming to build on a third-place Championship finish and progression to the last four of the play-offs and will help replace Australian Cole Geyer, who has joined Catalans Dragons.
Coach Alan Kilshaw, who already has an experienced hooker in Matty Wildie, said: “I’m really pleased we have been able to secure Reiss on a long-term deal.
“We made this signing very early in the year when we were aware of the Super League interest in Cole, and when I was made aware of Reiss’ availability, the club moved quickly.
“He’s a real competitor and has been one of the most consistent number nines in the Championship over the last few seasons.
“He has also played in and been around Super League environments, so I’m expecting him to thrive in our environment next season, sharing the hooking duties with Matty.”
Butterworth added: “Oldham are a top Championship team and that’s where I want to be playing my rugby.
“It’s a really good set-up. I’ve never played at somewhere as good as Boundary Park and I’m looking forward to it.
“I will bring loads of energy and enthusiasm and hopefully I can help the team go a step further next year.”