KEIGHLEY COUGARS coach Matt Bramald has made ex-Sheffield forward Marcus Green and Batley centre Ollie Greensmith his first two signings, and he hopes to talk veteran hooker George Flanagan into spending another season at the club.
Green, 23, who started out at Bradford, spent time on loan at Keighley (as well as Rochdale) this year, while Greensmith, 26, has made more than 100 career appearances, mostly for Dewsbury and their neighbouring Bulldogs.
While at Bradford, Green played alongside Flanagan, now 39, whose playing attributes and influence on the squad both and off the pitch are valued by new boss Bramald.
With a budget cut meaning Keighley will likely sign a number of younger players who have either left higher-level clubs or are stepping up from the amateur game, Flanagan could play a key role.
“George and I have known each quite a while,” said Bramald. “He’s a senior and experienced player who is good around the other lads and a bit of a mentor to the younger ones.
“I have spoken to him, he thinks he has another season in him, and it would be good to have him on board. The door is open.”
Ex-Hunslet team chief Bramald, 53, is a former Keighley player (2004 to 2006) who gained early coaching experience within the club’s old development system and was assistant to Jason Demetriou when he coached the club in 2011 and 2012.
He has signed a two-year contract is working closely with recently-appointed head of rugby operations Richard Dibbin, who like Bramald, has extensive knowledge of the community game.
“Richard is liaising with players and agents, which allows me to concentrate on making sure we get pre-season to work the way we want it to,” added Bramald.
“It’s an important role and I think we will have a really fruitful relationship.
“We are looking to have some experience through the spine and give opportunities to younger lads who want to learn and progress.”
