Hull KR have promoted one of their youngsters to the first-team ahead of Super League 2026.
Academy product Frankie Dearlove says he’s “itching to start” his professional rugby league career after penning a two-year deal with Hull KR ’s first-team.
The back-rower has been promoted ahead of the 2026 Super League season, having progressed through the club’s ranks over the past four years – featuring at scholarship, academy and reserves level.
Dearlove, 18, has trained with Willie Peters’ Super League squad on several occasions throughout 2025, impressing enough to earn a contract through to the end of 2027.
“I’m absolutely buzzing to have signed on for Hull KR,” said the teenager. “It’s been a dream of mine since I was a kid. There’s no place else I’d rather be.
“I’m so thankful for everyone who has stood by me along the road in my journey, my parents especially for coming to all my games along the way – I’d also like to thank my boyhood club Skirlaugh where I fell in love with playing this sport and wouldn’t be here without it.
“The boys that I’ve grown with in the academy and reserves have really helped me progress along the way and the academy coaching staff at Hull KR that have truly helped me advance my game.
“I’m itching to start now, despite it being the off-season. I can’t wait to make an impact on the squad and coaching staff and hopefully add another chapter to my rugby career.”
Head coach Peters admits he is excited to see the progression of the young forward, who adds competition to the back-row at Sewell Group Craven Park.
“We’re really pleased to sign Frankie to a first-team deal,” said the Rovers boss.
“Frankie represented Yorkshire in the Academy Origin series earlier in the year and has been working hard this year with the first=team ahead of 2026.
“We’re looking forward to Frankie continuing to work hard, apply himself and further his development at Hull KR to put himself in a position to play for the club’s first team in the coming years.”