Barrow Raiders utility back Luke Broadbent has signed a new two-year deal, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2025 season.
Broadbent returned to his hometown club ahead of the current Betfred Championship season following his departure from Super League side Warrington Wolves.
He has played across the backline at different stages of the campaign but has made the full-back spot his own in recent weeks. In total, Broadbent has made 19 appearances for the Raiders in all competitions, scoring eight tries.
In his younger days, the former England Youth (Under 16s) representative played his rugby at Walney Central before leaving Cumbria at the age of 16 to take up a professional deal with Warrington.
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Whilst at the Wolves, Broadbent spent time on loan at Whitehaven and Workington Town, making a combined 10 appearances for the two clubs.
“I’m over the moon to be staying for another two years,” he said. “It was a no-brainer to stay at this club. The lads are great and the fans are class.
“I’ve loved being back at my hometown club and enjoying my rugby again. I knew when I signed that all I needed was one chance to show what I’m about, and thankfully that’s what I’ve been able to do.
“I’m motivated to not sit back now and keep improving. Paul Crarey and the coaching staff have been great with me and have gotten the best out of me this season.
“I’m still young and have plenty to prove. We are looking at a good run of fixtures to finish the season, so hopefully we can survive at this level and enjoy another season of Championship rugby.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “It is very satisfying to us all that Luke has signed a deal to keep him at the club for the next two seasons.
“Having closely monitored him during pre-season, it was obvious to us that he was going to play a big part in the team this season.
“As the season has gone on, Luke has improved week-on-week and continues to work hard on his game to get even better. Our challenge to Luke is to keep listening and learning, stay focused and become a role model for all our young locals.
“The club will always continue to sign and promote the best of our local talent.”
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Chairman Steve Neale said: “We are delighted to reward Luke with a new contract after such a consistent season where he has proven that he has what it takes to play Championship rugby week in, week out.
“He has been a stand-out performer for us, and with his best years ahead of him it was a no-brainer for the club that we wanted to get him signed as we look to build a side around our local talent.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “It’s fantastic for the club, not only on the playing side but Luke also plays a big part in the community team and is very popular with all participants.
“Everyone is delighted to get the deal done, and we all think Luke has a massive future in the game. We look forward to seeing him progress even more over the next two seasons.”
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