The Bridgeman legacy continues as Mekhi comes on board

17/10/2022

Alongside the signing of Joe Hird from Leeds Rhinos comes fellow rising star Mekhi Bridgeman-Reaney on a one-year deal. 

Bridgeman is a surname synonymous with the Eagles after Derek Bridgeman became one of the club’s first cult heroes in the 80s. 

Now he will get to see his son, outside back Mekhi, put on the Red and Gold and hopefully be just as popular. 

“I am really happy to join the club,” said Bridgeman-Reaney. 

“It was special when signing the contract, as I’ve grown up knowing this club as my dad played here. 

“He is happy for me and he just wants me to prove what I can do. There is no better club to do it at!”

“I am happy to move on to my next step in rugby league but the experience at Leeds was really good. 

“The coaching staff helped me progress my game a lot and it was a really professional environment.”

Speaking shortly after Mekhi signed for the club, Director of Rugby Mark Aston commented: “Derek is a big part of this club and we hope Mekhi will follow in his footsteps,” 

“We have quite a few Dads and lads at the club now, with Faz, Beans and Derek. We might just get a Masters team soon enough!

“But in all seriousness, it’s all about the next generation and these lads that are putting on the Eagles shirt are certainly capable of writing their own name in history.  

“Mekhi is a great lad with a lot of potential, he will be surrounded with experience that he can learn from and we’re sure he’ll take any advice he gets on board. 

“We’re putting together a competitive squad and the likes of Mekhi and Joe are key to that. 

“Nobody’s place in the team is 100% guaranteed.” 

By Dan Fowler, graphic by Alex Coleman