Young Bears return to the fold

Prop - Trae O'Sullivan

Prop - Trae O'Sullivan

Wing - Hayden Freeman

Wing - Hayden Freeman

Half back - Elliot Norman

Half back - Elliot Norman

Coventry Bears are delighted to announce the signing of three young professionals who have returned to the club for the 2016 season.

Trae O'Sullivan, Hayden Freeman and Elliot Norman all played with the Bears as Juniors and went on to play for the Midlands Academy. This summer they also featured in regular fixtures against Super League Academy opposition.

Prop forward Trae O'Sullivan from Coventry went on to spend time with Leeds Rhinos U19's on loan from the Midlands Academy this summer and gained some valuable experience before deciding to return to Coventry and join his home town club as a League One player.

Wing or Fullback Hayden Freeman from Coleshill was snapped up by London Broncos U19s and spent the summer season there but has now also decided to come home to the Midlands.

Half back Elliot Norman from Nuneaton also spent time at the Broncos U19s and will join the Bears again as he strives to further his career.

Bears Alan Robinson commented "We have been working closely with the Midlands Academy and I have eagerly followed the progress of all three players for some time now. They have all shown great maturity and have grown into great prospects. I know that a number of big clubs have all shown interest but the time is right for them to come back and push for regular League One spots in the Bears 2016 line up as senior players. It is really exciting to see that the work of Bears junior coaches has paid off, growing talent in Coventry and Warwickshire and offering opportunities is something we are passionate about and it shows that the junior pathway works. There is huge potential in the region and its something we must harness for the future."