Bradford Bulls are looking to be part of the expanded Super League competition next year, and they are already getting to work on building their squad, should that opportunity arise.
After announcing new deals for club stalwart Sam Hallas, whilst also confirming Kurt Haggerty will be the man to lead them forward next year, the Bulls’ preparation for 2026 is in full swing, and this week have announced another player that will be part of their squad next season.
That man is Luke Hooley – the former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers full-back. The 27-year-old, who joined the Bulls from the Tigers on loan part-way through this year, has impressed the club’s hierarchy so much he has earned a permanent, two-year deal.
Hooley, who started his career at the Bulls after coming through their pathway system, has re-joined the Odsal club and will be hoping to get the opportunity to play Super League again, this time with the Bulls – who are looking to be one of the teams promoted to Super League via the application process that will be announced next month.
The full-back made a name for himself at Batley Bulldogs, and was part of the side that got to the Championship Grand Final in 2022, as they were beaten by Leigh Leopards. That season, however, earned him his first Super League m0ve, as he joined Leeds Rhinos. He managed to make eight appearances in his sole season at AMT Headingley, before a switch came to Castleford for seasons 2024 and 2025.
This year, however, he failed to make a Tigers’ appearance, with the Bulls being his main home this campaign. Hooley has made 22 appearances under Brian Noble, scoring eight tries and converting 63 goals.
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“Pushing for Super League” – Bradford Bulls fullback looking forward to future
Speaking on his permanent move, Hooley said:
“I’m over the moon to finally get it done and secure a future for the next couple of years. I’ve said in multiple interviews that [it’s] felt like home from day one and I’ve been taken in with welcome arms. I wanted to carry that on and go on the path that Bradford are going on and hopefully kick on now and finish the year strong and then look forward to the next couple of years.
“I started my career here, in the under-19’s I signed my first-ever professional contract here and obviously I’ve been on a big circle and I’ve ended up back here. So, it’s good to finally secure a deal here and hopefully kick on and just enjoy the next couple of years.
“They’re pushing for Super League, there’s no hiding in that. And they’re pretty sure that, you’d like to think that Bradford are up there for a spot in Super League next year and I’ve got a lot to prove in Super League. I’ve been at two clubs in Super League and it’s not worked out, so hopefully third time lucky I can secure a spot in that team week in, week out and show everyone what I can do.
