Bradford Bulls snap up former Leeds Rhinos man and fan favourite

Bradford Bulls have announced the re-signing of Sam Hallas on a deal until the end of the season.

The 25-year-old spent five years in the red, amber and black prior to a short stint at Newcastle Thunder – having been appointed John Kear’s vice-captain in 2021.

Consistent, whole hearted displays led to ‘Super Sam’ becoming a fans favourite and he will immediately be available for selection ahead of Good Friday’s battle with Halifax Panthers.

Following his first training session back as a Bull, Hallas insists he now wants to put his best foot forward ahead of his Odsal return this week.

“It is nice to be back – obviously I signed at Newcastle and it is a fantastic club, all the players and staff up there are outstanding but I got an opportunity away from the game I couldn’t turn down,” said Hallas, who will be sponsored by Woodlands Hotel.

“It meant I couldn’t be full time anymore but luckily I had a couple of offers and Bradford were one of them – it is good to be back here and see all the lads.

“I know the club well and the personnel obviously there are some new additions and from the first session they look like great additions too.

“There is a bit of rust, there are still some calls in my head but it is good to be back in amongst it – playing the games out there Dec testing me with a few short kick offs, they are all good lads and have helped me fit back in.

“Now I just want to cement myself in the team, performances have been good recently results have been a bit nip and tuck but I just want to put my best foot forward and show why I want to be in this team and earn the respect of my teammates.

“It is always a proud moment running out at Odsal, and against Halifax in a local derby, there is no bigger game as a Bradford fan so it will be a good occasion, hopefully packed out and fingers crossed we can get the job done.”

Bradford boss John Kear has spoken of his delight – revealing they ‘jumped at the chance’ to secure a return for Hallas.

“I am absolutely delighted, we did not want to lose him but understood Sam’s reasoning with regards to the opportunity to go full time,” said Kear, who is sponsored by HF Wealth.

“It has not worked out in that regard but now he has a good job back down here and when we realised he wanted part time we jumped at the chance – I am delighted he has accepted the challenge and opportunity and I am 100% sure he will add to us.

“Anyone who has watched Sam in a Bradford shirt knows he is whole hearted, wears his heart on his sleeve and his effort levels are sensational – he is my type of player!

“I am over the moon we have him back here and it is a timely boost ahead of the second quarter of the season especially with George Flanagan potentially being out for 4 to 6 weeks.

“He will play on Friday against Halifax and he will be very important to us – his leadership qualities will help and the great thing is he leads by doing not by talking.

“Anyone who has watched him will see that and that is just what I want him to do on Friday – roll his sleeves up, get back out there and I am certain he will put a good shift in.”