Under The Lights: Lock Lane

Castleford Tigers Foundation’s latest ‘Under The Lights’ feature focuses on an amateur club that is only a stone’s throw from the Fords’ Wheldon Road home.

Lock Lane ARLFC has a proud history of producing Super League talents who have gone on to represent the Tigers with the most recent examples of Greg Eden, Liam Watts, Joe Westerman, and Daniel Smith currently running out for Cas.

‘The Lane’ offers rugby league sessions from under 6 years all the way up to open age as well as various girls’ teams which continue to grow.

Under 7s coach, Darryl Longden explained just how encouraging it is to see plenty of youngsters putting on a pair of boots and taking part in the sport from a young age.

“We have got a good variety from under 6s right up to open age. We’ve got 12 age groups which is fantastic to see and it’s great to see so many young faces down.

“At our age group, we have got around 30 kids down which is amazing to see, especially for the community. It’s fantastic to have so many great kids coming down to play rugby and getting involved in the sport, which is important for their mental wellbeing as well.”

Castleford star winger Greg Eden represented Lock Lane in his youth and affirmed how crucial it is for children to have access to a local community club to grow their love for the game.

“Lock Lane is known all over the country for being one of the best amateur teams because they always have a team there or thereabouts. It’s a massive thing for the kids to have access to a local community club and it’s nice to see they are still going strong.

“It was in the under 11 and 12s that I played down here and I have some good memories. It’s great to see that there are still talented kids coming out of the club.”

Young player Blake is part of the clubs' under 12 age group and put forward how much he enjoys running out for his local team.

“It means a lot playing for Lock Lane and I absolutely love it down here. I have made loads of mates since I started. My dad and my mate’s dad coach our team and they are brilliant coaches!”

Tom Wrightson looks after Lock Lane’s U10s and played for ‘The Lane’ in the past. He outlined how pleasing it is to see the club grow as well as continuing to offer young aspiring players the chance to take up rugby league.

“For the kids to be able to play down at The Jungle and to see them part and parcel of the club is great to see. My son plays for the under 7s so he’s already played down there and it was wonderful for him.

“I played for Lock Lane since I was under 12 up to open age and have come back as a coach. It’s brilliant to see the club still going strong and opportunities are still available for kids of all ages.”

For more information on how to join your local community club, please contact matlancaster@castigers.com.