The Bradford Bulls are happy to report that we have repelled interest from the Super League in order to sign Cameron Bate, an Elite Academy talent, to a professional deal that will initially last through the conclusion of the 2025 campaign.
This year, the young forward has made a significant impact for both our Elite Academy and Reserves, scoring two tries in recent games against Salford Red Devils and Warrington Wolves.
A Top 4 Super League team much closer to home took notice of him because of his play, but the 18-year-old turned down a move and signed his first professional deal with the Bulls.
Moor Lane Service & MOT Center-sponsored Cameron Bate stated:
“This past week has been a roller coaster of emotions, and I feel very overwhelmed by how quickly everything happened.
“I started talking to my family to determine which option was best for me after weighing both possibilities, which were both excellent choices in their own right.
At the end of the day, we concluded that Bradford was the greatest location to be because it gave me a clearer path for growth. Since joining last year, I’ve discovered that this location is a great place to be; the guys and team are both excellent, and I’m having a great time.
Jonathan Schofield, head coach of Elite Pathways, who was supported by Ideal Tiling Solutions, stated:
“As a coach, it’s a huge deal when a Super League team approaches you with an offer for one of your players, so I was quite emotional. Cam is a second-year Academy player, and it is fantastic for him to envisage a future with this club. His father called me to tell me that he would be dedicating his future to the Bulls, which was wonderful to hear.
“All of the staff deserves recognition, including our Head of Youth Ryan Hunkin, Strength & Conditioning Coach Chris Stephens, Brendan Sheridan, and Nathan Graham. They have all contributed, and it is a testament to Cam that he has worked hard and grown significantly over the past ten months. I am thrilled he is staying with us.”
It is a huge lift for us because we have the mindset that a player will succeed no matter what they put in, and if Lee Greenwood or Brian Noble say they appreciate a player’s appearance and want to help him grow, that is what we are here to accomplish. As always, our club has some excellent young talent emerging, and Cameron Bate is next in line.
