OLDHAM RLFC have moved to secure prop Craig Kopczak on a two-year deal from Featherstone Rovers.
Kopczak arrives at Boundary Park with an excellent pedigree having played at a high level in the top two divisions, during his fruitful career.
“I am coming in to add experience and leadership, having played in big games and in Super League for over 15 years,” he said.
“Hopefully I can come in and help move the club forward to where it wants to be, with Super League being the ultimate ambition.
“The facilities here are fantastic, and another reason why I wanted to sign for Oldham.
“A very strong squad is being built for next year and the expectation is promotion, so hopefully I can make a big mark and help deliver that.”
After spending 15 of his 18-year career in Super League – playing for Bradford, Huddersfield, Salford and Wakefield – he made the move to Featherstone in 2021, where he has played for the past three seasons.
Kopczak has been a key player for the championship high-flyers and this year helped win the League Leaders Shield for the side who experienced defeat on only six occasions in the championship, over the past three seasons.
He started out his career at Bradford Bulls and went on to win Player of the Year at the club in 2011.
After leaving his hometown club, he signed for Huddersfield Giants and was part of the squad which won the 2013 League Leaders’ Shield.
A big game player, he was part of the Salford side which secured Super League status in the 2016 Million Pound Game with a 19-18 victory against Hull KR and also helped Featherstone lift the 1895 Cup in 2021 when he scored a try in the 41-34 win over York.
Adding to that, Kopczak has considerable international experience having represented Wales on 20 occasions and played in the 2017 and 2013 World Cups.
Craig Kopczak is the latest player to sign up with Roughyeds for the upcoming 2024 season with further announcements regarding the playing squad to follow.
