Abram follows in dad’s footsteps with Oldham
OLDHAM have added former Rochdale Hornets fullback Dan Abram to their squad for the 2020 Betfred Championship campaign.
The 25-year-old follows in the footsteps of his father Darren, who made more than 100 appearances for the club between 1992 and 1997, and went on to coach both Leigh Centurions and Rochdale.
“We are delighted to sign Dan, who is a very talented young player,” said Roughyeds boss Matt Diskin.
“He can play several positions, but he will give us quality and options at fullback and at halfback – in all the ball-playing positions, in fact.
“Fullback is probably his best and favourite spot, although he is very versatile and has played a lot of his rugby at halfback.”
Abram was in the same St Helens academy setup as Oldham teammates Dave Hewit and Lewis Charnock.
Following a year in Australia with Sarina Crocodiles, he spent two years at Barrow and then a season apiece at Whitehaven and Rochdale over the past two seasons. “I’m thrilled to be joining Oldham,” said Abram. “Matt has spoken to me on the phone and outlined his plans, and I’m looking forward to being coached by him and being part of the Oldham setup.”
Abram is the fifth new addition to the Roughyeds squad for 2020, following James Worthington, John Hutchings, Lewis Charnock and Jode Sheriffe, while Declan Kay, Harry Aaronson and Adam Brook have all signed permanent deals after loan spells last season.
Meanwhile, Swinton have announced that winger Ryan Gray will remain with the club next year.
The 21-year-old initially joined the Lions late in the 2018 season from Leigh East, following a successful trial period.
He made his professional debut against Leigh Centurions and scored his first professional try two weeks later versus Featherstone.
“I would like to thank Stuart Littler for the opportunity to work with him and his staff again this year,” said Gray. “I’m glad to be back with the lads and to push for another good season with the team.”
Lions head coach Stuart Littler was delighted to have retained the exciting young winger.
“It is great news that Ryan has agreed to stay with us,” he said. “I know Ryan struggled with appearances last year, but some of this was due to untimely illnesses and injury.
“Ryan is a good kid from a good family and brings with him some good values.
“The challenge for Ryan is to nail down a place in our side [and] we will support him fully in the pursuit of a jersey.”
A spot on the wing is up for grabs following the departure of Matty Ashton, who has joined Warrington Wolves in Super League.