Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs back rower Frank Pritchard will depart at season’s end to take up an opportunity with Hull FC in the English Super League.
The former Kiwi international and current Samoan representative will move to the north of England on a three year deal that will see him finish his playing career in the north of England.
Pritchard made his NRL debut in Round 8 of season 2003 for the Penrith Panthers before going on to play 144 games for the club. In 2011, the 31-year-old joined the Bulldogs and has made 92 appearances in the blue and white.
On top of his club appearances, Pritchard has made 27 appearances for New Zealand and also four appearances for Samoa.
Pritchard is excited about the opportunity with Hull FC.
“The English Super League is continuing to grow as a competition and to be able to go over there and continue as a professional athlete is exciting,” Pritchard said.
“I’ve been blessed with my time in the NRL and I thank everyone at both the Panthers and Bulldogs from over the years.
“It’s not over yet though and I’ll be committing more than ever to leave at the end of the season with the ultimate prize and I believe we have a group here at the Bulldogs who are more than capable of doing so.”
Chief Executive Raelene Castle is pleased the Pritchard has been able to extend his career overseas.
“Frank is a fan favourite who we thank for his time here at the club,” Castle said. “He’ll definitely be missed and we wish him all the best for the future.’’
Coach Des Hasler has also thanked Pritchard for his contribution.
“Frank has been a leader amongst the playing group since arriving at the club and I know he’ll want to continue to perform on the field through until the end of the season,” Hasler said.
