NEW Keighley Cougars signing Elliott Cousins is chomping at the bit for his chance to impress in the professional game.

Last Thursday it was confirmed that the 31-year-old would be moving onto pastures new after a long and successful spell at amateur side West Bowling.

Cousins will now take his first steps into a professional set-up in the senior game, and he admitted that now was the perfect time to do so.

Speaking to the T&A, he said: “I’ve had interest from several clubs over the past few years but work commitments and family time has meant that it wasn’t feasible to make the move previously.

“Currently, it does suit my lifestyle, so as soon as I heard of Keighley’s interest it was a no brainer for me because I don’t want to have any regrets when my playing career comes to an end.

“In my life I’m settled, and at 31-years-old I feel as if I’m entering my prime years, so this was too good of an opportunity to turn down.”

Cousins added: “People might look at my age and feel that I’m a bit old to be making such a move, but right now I’m playing the best rugby I’ve played in my life and I’m coming off the back of international honours with the England Community Lions. So, I think the timing is perfect for me.”

Giving his thoughts on what he can bring to this current Cougars squad, Cousins said: “One thing I offer is versatility.

“I’m not your average middle; I like to the play with the ball, but I also like to do the dirty tasks for the team.

“I pride myself on work ethic in terms of doing those extra one percent tasks.

“Obviously, I haven’t been in the professional system for a number of years now, since coming through the youth ranks at Bradford Bulls and Huddersfield Giants, but I feel like I can act as a good role model for some of the younger lads who are coming up from the youth ranks too.”

Elliott Cousins was recently away with the England Community Lions in AustraliaElliott Cousins was recently away with the England Community Lions in Australia (Image: Submitted) Following the announcement that Cousins would be joining Keighley, head coach Jake Webster commented: “Players like Elliott are a rare find.

“He's got a great work ethic, is very skilful and he offers a lot of versatility in the middle of the park.”

The former West Bowling star admitted that it was nice to read such commending words.

He said: “I was pleased to be able to read those words.

“Hats off to Jake and the rest of the Keighley staff for giving me this opportunity to prove myself. I’m more than capable, and I know will prove myself. There’s no two ways about that.

“It also shows that, to the guys who miss out through scholarships and reserve systems, there is always a chance that the door will open for you at some point in your career.

“So, for me to be in this position and hear those kind words from Jake is very rewarding.”

Cougars have been back in pre-season training for a week now, and although it can be daunting joining a new club, Cousins is already familiar with several members of the current first team.

He said: “I’m delighted to have started with Cougars in pre-season; it’s been a positive first week.

“It always helps knowing a few faces when you arrive at a new club. I know George Flanagan, Brandon Pickersgill and Josh Lynam very well and I’m good friends with them outside of rugby.

“It’s also key to build new bonds within the group and that’s what I’ll be looking to do throughout pre-season.”

In signing for Cougars, Cousins is closing off a chapter in his life by moving on from his beloved West Bowling, which didn’t prove to be an easy decision.

He said: “It was a difficult decision to make because I’ve loved my time at West Bowling.

“I had a chat with John Williams (West Bowling head coach) and a few of the guys at the club, and like I’ve said, the set-up at Cougars just happens to suit me better with potential games being on a Sunday.

“It allows me to an extent, to be able to spend time with my children on a Saturday going forward.

“Of course, if I’m not selected for Keighley then I’ll be putting my hand up to play for West Bowling as both clubs have allowed me to do so.”

He added: “My time at Bowling has come to a halt at this moment in time, but I do see my future there.

“The club is fantastic and the junior set-up, which my children are involved in, is brilliant. It means I’ll be around at the club anyway whenever I get the chance.

“I’ve created memories that will last a lifetime at West Bowling and I’m very grateful for all that they’ve done for me over the years.”