Eagles sign Olly Butterworth

20/07/2021

Sheffield Eagles are pleased to announce the signing of Olly Butterworth until the end of the season. 

Butterworth is a former GB Bobsleigh athlete, having represented his country at a World Cup, and has been a serving member of the Parachute Regiment since 2018. 

Formerly a rugby union player with the Scarlets and Cardiff Met University, the winger is looking forward to getting some experience in the 13-man code. 

“I am very happy to be on board,” said Butterworth. 

"The plan was to move back to rugby after spending a few years with the GB Bobsleigh team. 

“For me, rugby has always been a part of my life but when I joined the Army I had a chance to take up bobsleigh. 

“I competed for Great Britain for two seasons but I wanted to make the move back to rugby, as I’m coming into my prime physically so it’s perfect for me.

“It’s great to be aided by the likes of Mark (Aston) and Keith Senior too.”

Butterworth explained the challenges he has faced in training, mainly due to the difference between bobsleigh and rugby league. 

The 23-year-old has also had a discussion with Aston regarding his personal goals, as the paratrooper looks to make an impact in the sport.

"I have been in training for two to three months and the big difference is from running 60-metres in bobsleigh to a couple of kilometres in one training session,” he added. 

“The conditioning side of things has been the hardest thing for me but it has been enjoyable. 

“I have spoken in-depth with Tubbs about wanting to develop as a player and to find out where I belong. 

"Hopefully I’ll be able to slide into that team sheet when the time is right.”

Aston is pleased to make Butterworth an Eagle, adding: “It’s great to have Olly on board,” 

"He’s a character and with a rich CV outside of Rugby League with his career in the Armed Forces and his time with the GB Bobsleigh team!

“He’s an athlete, he certainly looks after himself and it’s our job now as coaches to try and develop him into a rugby league player and understand the game. 

“With his height and build along with his pace and power, if we can do that we could have a real asset on our hands.”

By Dan Fowler, photo by Alex Coleman