Roughyeds place faith in Dempsey

BRIGHT FUTURE BECKONS. . . Oldham starlet Tom Dempsey.

OLDHAM Rugby League Club have signed their ‘baby’ on professional forms.

Seventeen-year-old half-back Tom Dempsey, the youngest player at Whitebank, has signed so that he can continue his development in the under-20s squad, knowing he has a future at the club.

Runcorn-based Dempsey joined Oldham at the start of the season. In a relatively short time he has made a big impression while occupying a key role in the under-20s squad.

“He has handled this situation admirably, which in itself is a pointer to his future prospects,” said club chairman Chris Hamilton. “He has all the attributes – ability, desire, commitment and a terrific attitude.

“He was bitterly disappointed not to be retained by Wigan, but I’ve had a long chat with his parents and explained to them that 17 he still has his future ahead of him.

“We have had several examples at our club of young players who have suffered similar knocks at Super League clubs but are now pursuing a different path and moving onwards and upwards.”

“He is young and he has a lot of work to do, but we feel he has the makings of a very good player and that we can be good for each other.”

Under-20s coach Neil Roden alerted Oldham coach Scott Naylor to the youngster’s potential and Naylor has kept a close eye on him.

“I’ve seen him a few times and I like what I see,” said Naylor. “By signing players like Dempsey and Richard Joy we are looking to the future.”