POWERFUL prop Mitch Clark has returned to York Knights eight years after his sole appearance for the club.
The 31-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year deal following his release from Championship rivals Sheffield Eagles on compassionate grounds earlier this week.
Clark and his partner are expecting their first child, with the move to York bringing him closer to family.
With fellow front-rowers Bailey Antrobus and Kieran Hudson both injured, Clark adds strength, size and experience to Mark Applegarth’s side ahead of Sunday’s 1895 Cup opener against Halifax.
Known for his strong running and offload game, the forward has featured for Super League sides Castleford Tigers and Wigan Warriors and has a wealth of Championship experience, with Bradford Bulls, Featherstone Rovers, Newcastle Thunder and Doncaster also among his former clubs over more than 200 career appearances.
Clark made his Knights debut in 2017 whilst on dual registration from Hull KR, in which he earned the heritage number #1832. Father Trevor also counts York among his former clubs, having made nine appearances in the 1986-87 season.
He also featured once for the Junior Kiwis against the Junior Kangaroos in 2013.
On securing the forward’s services, Applegarth enthused: “I’m really delighted to get Mitch over the line.
“It came around really quickly. He’s a player that we were definitely looking at for next year but when the opportunity came to sign him for the rest of this year we jumped at the chance.
“Mitch will add a different dimension to us. He’s got some punch in his attack, he’s got a great offloading game and he’s got a great presence around him. I think culturally he’ll be a big lift for the lads as well.”
Clark added: “I’m really pleased to sign. I’m looking forward to getting started.
“I spoke to Mash [Applegarth] before and I can’t wait to rip in. To get it sorted and over the line, I’m over the moon.
“My partner and I are expecting our first child and to be closer to home and have more time with my family is everything.”
