Tigers bag promising youngster

Posted: Thursday 29th October 2015 - 6:21 AM

Castleford Tigers have secured the services of Greg Minikin from York City Knights on a two year deal.



The 20-year old centre has been at York since 2012 and made his debut in the first team in 2013 against Catalans Dragons in the Challenge Cup. Good performances over the past two seasons had seen a few Super League clubs show interest.

Minikin bagged 16 tries in 25 games this season for a York team that finished 4th in the Kingstone Press League 1 and impressed St Helens Captain, Jon Wilkin with him tipping Minikin to make it to Super League sooner rather than later.

Back in June, York City Knights coach and former Tigers player, James Ford praised Minikin by saying in The Press, York:



"He's very athletic, well-balanced, strong and quick. He's got a great work ethic and he improves every week. He's got the tools to succeed at the top level if he continues learning and improving."

Minikin shared his delight today upon signing for the Tigers:



“I’m really excited, I’ve always wanted to play professional Rugby League since I was a kid. Daryl was a big part in me choosing the Tigers, I’ve heard nothing but good words about him as a coach and as a person, he’s very good at developing young players and I can’t wait to work with him,”



The centre is looking forward to making the leap to Super League with Castleford:



“The club is on the up and came close to silverware in the last two years. It’s an exciting time to join with a new stadium on the horizon, the club is clearly growing and moving in the right direction,”

The chance to learn from an experienced team was a big pull for Minikin:



“Michael Shenton is a class player, there are lots of experienced senior players here who I’m looking forward to developing under. Pre season training is just around the corner and I’m really excited to get to know my new team mates and embrace full time training.”



Tigers head coach, Daryl Powell has been impressed with the youngster so far and is excited to get him on board for 2016:



“Greg Minikin is an outstanding prospect. I have been really impressed with his ability during his time at York. He is a naturally strong player with a great instinct for the game,"



Powell added: “I’m confident he will be a consistent Super League player in the near future, and I look forward to our coaching staff helping him achieve his potential.”



Steve Gill, Castleford Tigers CEO said:



“Greg is a promising young player, who now has a superb opportunity to be a front line centre in Super League. He will have some excellent people to learn from within our playing team and coaching team. York City Knights have played a great part in Greg’s development to date and we’re delighted to have Greg on board with us.”