ADAM O'Brien believes his spell at Dewsbury has prepared him for the rigours of the Championship next season as the Bulls seek an immediate Super League return.

The highly-regarded hooker was dual-registered with Glenn Morrison's side in 2013 and became a regular in their line-up.

He subsequently established himself as the Bulls' first-choice hooker in the second half of last season and looks back at his time with the Rams as a defining period in his career.

"It was a massive experience for me at Dewsbury last year," said 21-year-old O'Brien.

"I was playing against Championship sides and got my game up to speed before coming back to Bradford, so it was hugely beneficial.

"Playing against Dewsbury next season will be different but it will be another good experience.

"I was injured when we played them in pre-season, so I'm looking forward to coming up against them next year.

"People say it's more physical in the Championship than in Super League. But it's rugby league at the end of the day and everyone goes out to win and smash each other over a field.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge and I think we will do well this coming season."

O'Brien says the Bulls are determined to repay the club's supporters following last season's relegation.

"It's like a new era at Bradford at the moment and the fans have been great," he said.

"Ever since I have been at the club, they have always been there for us through the good times and bad.

"It's massive for us to know that whatever happens, there is always a great backing for us.

"We know they will be there for us, so we need to reward them with some wins now and get back into Super League."

As a Halifax lad, O'Brien is also relishing the prospect of facing his home-town club next term.

"That will be massive for me and is another one I'm really looking forward to," he said.

"It'll be good to face some of the teams I played against for Dewsbury. I'm looking forward to the challenge."