Hull KR promote promising hooker to first team

Hull KR have announced that highly-rated academy hooker Charlie Cavanaugh has been promoted to the first team, signing a two-year deal.

The youngster has been a standout member of the academy side in recent years, having progressed through the now disbanded City of Hull academy alongside fellow youngster Will Tate, who made his Super League debut this season.

He will now join Rovers’ senior side on a part-time basis, combining his playing commitments with studying for a Sports Coaching degree at Leeds Beckett University.

Hull KR head of youth John Bastian said: “We signed him from the City of Hull originally and it’s great that he’s on board with us. One of the first things that you recognise with Charlie is that he’s very focused and very composed as a person. He has a really good balance about him.

“He wants to achieve things and without a shadow of a doubt he’s got enough talent to build on over the next few years. I think he has a lot more physical development left in him, he won’t be fully developed until he’s around 22/23 years old. He’s got a bit to go yet which is a great sign.

“His enthusiasm to play the game is a real stand out feature. He’s a talent with lovely game control as a hooker, as well as some strong attacking threats.”

Rovers assistant coach Danny McGuire added: “His attitude is great and he’s a really nice kid who works hard and you can tell that he’s going to be a really good honest pro.

“He’s one of the fittest in the academy and always pushing everybody else to be better. He ticks all of the boxes, he’s a local lad that’s come through and he’s going to be combining his studies with training as well which I think is fantastic. The club have been brilliant in allowing him to do that.

“He played some games in the reserves in the early part of the season and he didn’t look out of place. He still needs to develop physically but he has all the attributes that he needs. His service is quality and has played a bit in the half backs as well so he can kick a ball.

“All of his family are really excited that he’s got the deal. I think it’s really good that he’s seeing the other side of it as well and combining his studies with it. I’m really looking forward to working with him next year and seeing him develop.”