COVENTRY Bears have continued their squad building ahead of the new League One campaign by capturing the services of experienced hooker Nathan Conroy.
Conroy came through the Bradford Bulls youth system and has played Championship rugby league for both the Bulls and Dewsbury Rams.
The 23-year-old then became a key member of Keighley Cougars in League One last season.
Bears head coach Tom Tsang said: “When we reviewed our squad from last season, hooker was a position we targeted to improve as we really struggled for consistency in this area due to injury and inexperience.
“We were looking for a player who can be a leader for us in such a crucial position and Conroy is just that.
“We have made it clear we are working to a philosophy of locally-based players and Nathan does sit outside this, however, when the opportunity arose to sign someone of his calibre, it was something we couldn’t overlook.
“I am extremely confident Nathan’s talent and experience will help speed up the development of some of our young players.”
Conroy said he signed for the Bears as he wanted a new challenge in his career and hopes to guide Coventry to their most successful season ever in 2019.
“The Bears have improved a lot over the past few years and are now seen as a very respected team within the competition,” he added.
“I am looking forward to helping them progress even further and I believe I have the qualities to do this.
“I am looking forward to ripping in during the 2019 season and try and guide the team to their most successful season – something I believe is more than capable of happening.”
