Dewsbury Rams have confirmed that long-serving winger Austin Buchanan has signed a new one-year contract with the club. Buchanan has also been granted a three-month testimonial by the RFL for his services to the club and the sport of Rugby League.
After starting his professional rugby league career with Leeds Rhinos Academy, Buchanan spent time with London Broncos, before making a name for himself at Championships level with York City Knights.
A spell on the fringes at Wakefield Trinity Wildcats followed, before Austin opted to join the Rams in 2007. Buchanan played a key role in the first team during the latter stages of the 2014 regular season and he says he’s relishing the chance to go again.
“I’m really pleased to sign for another year at Dewsbury,” said Buchanan. “I’ve said for a while now that I was keen to stay on board and the club’s always indicated that they’d be keen to keep me.
“I had a couple of other offers, including one from overseas, but I never had any desire to go anywhere else – this club has become a second home to me.
“From the supporters, to the coaching staff and everyone else involved, I just enjoy being a part of it and I’m lucky that they seem to like having me around too.”
Buchanan has already started to make plans to celebrate his testimonial and is the process of assembling a committee to help stage events.
“I’m really proud to have been awarded a testimonial and I’m already working hard to put things in place. It’s very new to me, but I’ve spoken to a few people – including my brother Jamie Jones-Buchanan – and that’s given me a few ideas.
“And I’d really like to hear from anybody who’d be able to help put the plans in place or help with any sponsorship.”
Dewsbury Rams chairman Mark Sawyer paid tribute to Austin’s contribution during his eight years with the club.
“Austin has been with us for a number of years – through thick and thin – and I’m really pleased that he’s been rewarded for his commitment with a testimonial,” he said. “He’ll be here again in 2015 and will undoubtedly be keen to fight for a place – something he’s always done.
“Austin is our longest-serving player and a true stalwart and we’re privileged to have had him at the club for as long as we have. Next year is an opportunity for his commitment and loyalty to be rewarded and I hope everybody supports his testimonial.”
