BRANDON Pickersgill has signed a full-time two-year deal to remain with Bulls.
Bradford have fended off Super League interest to tie down the talented 21-year-old until the end of 2020.
Having made his debut last season after coming through the academy, the full back has been a pivotal figure in their campaign this year.
That culminated in him being short-listed for the League One young player of the year award.
He said: “I’m over the moon. Obviously I’m out of contract at the end of this year and I wanted to get it sorted and now that it is I can finally concentrate on my rugby again.
“It’s been great for me so far this year. To play the amount of games that I have done has been a real breakout year and will hopefully help me cement a spot in the side.
"I’m hoping to keep going from this year in the upward direction."
Pickersgill, who can also play in the halves, admitted a full-time contract and the chance to continue developing under John Kear meant his mind was made up quickly.
He said: “Everything about the club made me want to stay here. I’ve been here for four years now so when they offered me a full-time deal it was one that I couldn’t turn down.
"When I got the news I was absolutely buzzing. My mind was made up there and then.
“It’s been massive in terms of my development. John has really pushed me on as a player.
"I think I have improved no end playing under him and it was a real factor knowing that he was going to be here next year as well.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here