NEWBOULT SIGNS EXTENSION

Youngster signs 12 month extension following debut season

We are pleased to confirm that young prospect Ethan Newboult has signed an extension to his contract that will see him remain at The Alex until the end of the 2026 season.

Ethan first joined the Canes towards the end of the 2024 season on a short-term deal - with a club option to extend this until the end of the 2025 - following his release from Bradford Bulls. Whilst he did not make his professional debut that season, his efforts in training clearly impressed Head Coach Mark Dunning and Assistant Coach Leigh Beattie enough to persuade them to exercise the club’s option. His efforts would soon be rewarded as he made his professional debut at hooker during our 6-7 1895 Cup Second Preliminary Round defeat to Keighley Cougars at the start of the season.

Newboult would only have to wait a month to make his league debut as he featured in the halves alongside Sully Medforth during our 16-16 home draw with Workington Town. He would go on to make five further appearances for the club this season from the bench as a supporting hooker, with his last appearance coming during our 58-4 win over Newcastle Thunder.

Speaking with CanesTV, Mark Dunning had this to say about retaining Ethan for 2026:

“We’re really pleased that Ethan has committed to the club for another year at least. 

Having worked his socks off last year to get to the levels needed, Ethan got became an important part of the squad and he contributed to both training and games when his opportunity arose.

We’re looking forward to seeing him continue in his development throughout 2026.”

CanesTV then spoke with Ethan Newboult regarding his decision to remain at The Alex for another year:

“I’m really excited to have signed with the Canes for 2026.

Last year was a great experience for me in terms of having the opportunity to develop in training and be rewarded with the chance to make my competitive debut and challenge for a regular place in what is a competitive squad.

I’m looking forward to get stuck in with the boys again this year and making my mark on the team.”

Ethan’s announcement means we’re up to half a dozen retention announcements and no fewer than 14 off-season squad announcements ahead of the 2026 season. We’re pleased to confirm we have at least one more piece of retention news to release, as well as some exciting backroom staff updates and details about those all important 2026 season tickets!

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