GOOLE VIKINGS coach Brett Ferres reckons the club has landed one of the Championship’s hottest prospects in Alfie Dean.
The 22-year-old centre or secondrow arrives from Keighley Cougars, for whom he scored nine tries in 28 appearances last season – including against the Vikings.
Goole say that they have fended off stiff competition to secure the signature of the former Castleford Tigers product, who has turned out for both Batley Bulldogs and Newcastle Thunder, as well as spending a brief spell Down Under playing under former Castleford, Bradford and Hull FC prop Andy Lynch at Milton-Ulladulla Bulldogs.
A 14th-placed finish has given Goole plenty of positivity for 2027, and Dean credits both that ambition and the opportunity to continue his development under Ferres as the driving factors for his move.
“I’m really looking forward to starting this new chapter,” said the young talent, who has built a reputation for his power, mobility and eye for the try line.
“I’ve been really impressed by the ambition and vision of the club. The environment they want to create and becoming a big part of the community really stood out to me.
“It’s an exciting project to be part of, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Ferres, who has also added twins Oli and Jack Burton, Nathan Cullen and Zeus Silk to his squad, believes Dean has all the characteristics to succeed with the Vikings.
He added: “Alfie could be a great asset for us. He’s still only 22, but already has a decent amount of first-grade experience under his belt.
“He’s got his best years ahead of him and there’s a lot of potential there for us to work with.
“He’s got a big frame, he’s mobile, powerful and very mature for his age.
“He understands what this club is about, where we want to go, and he’s fully bought into what we’re trying to build here.
“I’m really excited about getting to work with him and helping him take his game to the next level.”
