Dewsbury Rams yesterday announced the re-signing of James Thornton.
The Dewsbury born player first signed for the club at the beginning of 2020. His performances in a Rams shirt but also in a Hull KR reserve and Coventry Bears jersey has meant he’s done enough to earn a new contract with the Rams.
On staying at the club and playing for his hometown team, Thornton said: “I’m really pleased to be staying on board for 2021. I was really enjoying my rugby here at Dewsbury up until lockdown.
“I felt like all of us lads were on the same page, we were all willing to work hard for eachother and I think that showed with the results we came up with in our first few games.
“I said it last year but being able to pull on a shirt for your hometown club has got to be one of the proudest feelings in any sport and I’m just grateful I’ve been given the opportunity to do that again for when we return in 2021.”
On playing games for the Rams and away from the Tetley’s Stadium, he commented: “I played in a few of the games last year and also spent some time on loan down at KR and Coventry so it was good to be getting game time week in week out.
“With the experience we had in our pack, I knew I was going to have to work hard to cement my spot in the starting 17 and I’m sure it will be more of the same next year but in my opinion that’s how I think I’d like it.
“Everyone wants to get out there on the field which means everyone is doing the most to be put into the fold. When you’re in that kind of environment it can only bring out the best in a player in my eyes.”
After a prolonged absence away from rugby due to Covid-19, Thornton is eager to get back to training and playing.
“I’m itching to get back to it, lockdown has been tough not just for everyone involved with the sport but for everyone in general and we’ve all had to adjust.
“I’m just looking forward to getting stuck into it again, especially with the way we were heading last year, we just want to keep that momentum going and pick up where we left off in 2020 and with the lads and staff we’ve got I have no doubt that next year we’ll do exactly that. Im just looking forward to getting back into a routine.
“I couldn’t fault any one of the boys last year, or the staff for that matter. Again, we all were more than happy to put in the work for eachother wether that be training or out on the field come game day.
“When you’ve got a group of people around you like that you can’t go far wrong.”
Finally the local lad had a message for the fans.
“Lockdown has been a struggle for everyone and we’ve all had to make sacrifices but prior to that, it felt great having the fans there on a Sunday supporting us.
“It really does mean a lot to us lads playing in front of such a loyal fan base, a club that’s known for having their fans loud and proud.
“I’m sure the lads would agree with me in saying that we hope to see you all again at the Tetleys Stadium as well as the away days in 2021!”
