Barry Eaton believes he can be a hit both on and off the field at Cougar Park.

The former Dewsbury scrum half is loving his new job as player-coach at Keighley, which combines with a role working in the club's community development programme.

At 32, Eaton has enjoyed a fine career, also starring with Widnes Vikings in Super League, playing for Wales and setting world records for goal-kicking while spending the last four years orchestrating Batley Bulldogs.

He has now taken his first step into coaching but has no intention of winding down.

"I'm not ready to hang up my boots and feel I've got another couple of years left in me," said the player, who was acquired courtesy of an anonymous £20,000 donation to the Cougars.

"Playing-wise I feel as fit as ever and I've not missed a match in three years.

"I still feel I've got a lot to offer as well as passing on my experience to some of these potentially talented youngsters coming through here."

A genuine playmaker, Eaton is just the sort of character the Cougars need during a period of transition at the club.

Boss Peter Roe made him his first signing on returning there in November knowing, with money tight, he needs an experienced figure to guide his young rookies on the field.

The player is also getting his first shot at coaching and said: "I've made no secret over the last 12 or 18 months that I wanted to go down this route.

"When Peter spoke to me I didn't take long to realise this was a great opportunity.

"Peter is a coach who has great credentials and achie-ved loads both as a coach and player.

"I have great respect for him, I've really settled in and there's exciting times at the Cougars, with our first friendly coming up on January 15."

l The Cougars are offering a fantastic deal on junior season ticket prices.

The pass covers all home and away games, including the Northern Rail Cup and LHF Healthplan National League Two, and costs just £25.

With more than 25 matches, that comes in at less than £1 a game.

Children need to be aged under 16 on September 30, 2005 and can get their season ticket by contacting the club on 01535-606044.