Luke Broadbent has committed his long-term future to Barrow Raiders, signing a new three-year deal which will keep him at the club until at least the end of the 2028 season.

Broadbent returned to his hometown club ahead of the 2023 season and has gone on to make 74 appearances in all competitions, scoring 25 tries. 

He has shown his versatility over the last three years, operating at full-back, centre and winger. 

In his younger days, the former England Youth representative played his rugby at Walney Central and came through the club’s first-ever Junior Education Training Scheme (JETS) cohort before leaving Cumbria at the age of 16 to take up a professional deal with Warrington Wolves.

During his time at the Wolves, Broadbent spent time on loan at Whitehaven and Workington Town, making a combined 10 appearances for the two clubs.

“I was pleased to play all 26 rounds of the Championship this year, and I look forward to becoming more of an experienced member of the squad as the years go on,” he said. 

“Cresta is the main part of me being convinced to stay. He’s shown faith in me since I first came to the club three years ago, and now it’s time for me to repay his trust. 

“I honestly believe that if we fix up in a few areas that let us down this year, there’s a chance we can mount a serious challenge for top spot next year.

“An 1895 Cup final appearance at Wembley for my hometown club is a real goal of mine, and hopefully over the next three years we can make that happen for the fans.”

Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “It’s fantastic news for the club that Luke has agreed a new three-year deal. 

“Luke has improved season on season and is now an established member of the team. He has a terrific work rate, both in attack and defence

“He is exactly what the club is all about – a homegrown product who was a part of the original group of our JETS programme in its very early days. 

“He is proof that this club is more than capable of producing its own talent, and we look forward to watching this already-consistent, top player continuing to improve week after week.”

Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “Luke has become a mainstay of our side over the last few years, which is why it is great news that he has agreed to stay.

“Luke is a hungry young player who is always keen to learn and develop his game, having first become involved with the club at a young age.  

“Under the guidance of Paul Crarey and his coaching staff, I’m confident that he can continue to develop into a top player at Championship level.”

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