Oldham have secured the services of former St Helens youngster, Ellis Keppel, on a one-year deal.
Twenty-year-old Keppel, who has played the majority of his rugby at centre but can also fill in at full-back, wing and second-row, was playing reserve grade with St Helens last year.
He becomes the club’s 23rd signing for next year after ex-Bradford Bulls and Widnes Vikings winger Patrick Ah Van and Leigh Leopards fullback Martyn Ridyard.
On the move Keppel said:
“Looking at the Oldham squad, with the likes of Martyn Ridyard and Patrick Ah Van, I thought it would be good experience for me to learn from the more experienced players.
“I think I bring a good defensive mindset. My positional sense is good. I’m not afraid to put my body in front of anyone who’s attacking me.
“Attacking wise, I’m quite a skilful player, I’ve got a bit of speed about me as well and I’ll probably be one of the loudest players on the field.”
He started out playing for his local amateur club, Newton Storm, and shortly afterwards got the chance to play with hometown club Saints on scholarship.
He toured Australia with the Saints’ academy side and while in the reserves last year, gained experience through several sessions with the first-team squad.
During the World Cup this year, he spent time with the Ireland camp after being invited to train with the first team squad.
Roughyeds’ Head Coach and former Salford Red Devils man Stuart Littler said:
“Ellis comes to us from a great background. St Helens, four-time champions of Super League, have got a very good production line between academy and reserves.
“There’s a strong calibre of players. Ellis has been involved first from the youth and then going through the academy.
“We are trying to develop the club and grow organically and Ellis is coming to challenge himself against men and prove himself. We are delighted to get him on board.”
