Eagles tie down Bower on two-year contract

07/10/2022

The marathon man - Connor Bower - has signed a new two-year deal with Sheffield Eagles.

The centre-turned-back-rower recently completed two marathons in as many weekends before allowing himself to enjoy the rest of the off-season.

Filling in at second-row for most of the year, Bower has been a standout for the Eagles with a blossoming partnership alongside scrum-half Anthony Thackeray and centre Kris Welham.

“It has been my first consistent season of rugby for a while,” said Bower.

“Transitioning to a new position, I needed as much game time as possible to find my feet and personally I’ve really enjoyed it.

“It’s all about developing for me now. Whether it’s playing a new position or staying where I am, I’m happy to play wherever.

“It’s an exciting time to be at the club. We’re back at the stadium, the squad is going to be improving and the majority of this year’s team will be staying.

“It’s a no-brainer to stick around with a good bunch of lads. When Tubbs said about a two-year deal, again that was a no-brainer.

“I’m committed to the cause. I love the staff, love the facilities and it’s somewhere I see myself long-term.”

Discussing the two-year deal, Director of Rugby Mark Aston commented: “Connor has had a brilliant year with us in 2022,”

“There was no doubt in my mind about wanting him to stay for another couple of seasons at least.

“He hasn’t complained or grumbled about the move to second-row and I think that shows in his performances too.

“He has been consistent, learnt the position really quickly and helped us out in a professional manner.

“It’s an exciting time to be at the club, Connor knows that too.

“With him putting pen to paper on a two-year deal, that also shows the progress we’re making on and off the pitch.”

By Dan Fowler, graphic by Alex Coleman