As the 1990s came to a close and the 2000s began, Bradford were at the forefront of British rugby league.
Their dominance in 1997 saw them lose just two league games as they became only the second side to win Super League. They then went on to play five consecutive Grand Finals at the start of the 21st century winning the Super League crown with two wins over Wigan and a 15-6 triumph over Leeds in 2005.
In 2006, they even regained the world title with a win over Wests Tigers in Huddersfield. During this time the Bulls had a huge fan base including one George Flanagan. Now the 35-year-old is a key player for his boyhood club as they look to claw their back into Super League.
Today, Flanagan committed to that mission by signing a one-year extension with the Bulls to keep him at the club until the end of 2022.
Since joining the Bulls in 2018, he’s gone on to make 50 appearances averaging more than a try every other game including a number at the end of this season as they wrapped up their place in the Championship play-offs.
That said, he was at the heart of a controversy earlier this year when he was banned for 10 games and even considered quitting the sport.
Speaking to the club website about the decision, he was clearly pleased: “I am buzzing it has come at a good time for me, from speaking to John and Mark it hasn’t been the best year personally but I am delighted they have shown faith in me to go round again and I can’t wait to have a good crack at it.
“I just want to do my best for this team at every opportunity, I came back and scored tries but I just want to push on and repay the faith they had in me during a tough period.”
Equally, Head Coach John Kear spoke glowingly about Flanagan: “George is someone who embodies just what it means to play for this club, he is very passionate about the club and works very hard away from the club to ensure he can put his best foot forward,” said Kear, who is sponsored by Bradford Bulls Banter.
“I am certain he has another very productive year in front of him, he is very important to us as a coaching and playing group.
“He sets examples off the field and I felt he was harshly treated earlier on this year, we stood by him and he repaid us and that is why he has signed for another year.”
