A FORMER Bradford Bulls star is set to see his career honoured with a testimonial match next month.

Jake Webster, who now plays for Keighley Cougars, will be recognised with a special clash between Cougars and Castleford Tigers on Sunday, January 22 (3pm kick-off) at Cougar Park.

The now 39-year-old signed for Cougars from the Bulls in October 2019 with a prestigious career already to his name.

The son of a New Zealand Maori father and Greek mother, he played for the Kiwis and his club game has been dominated by spells in the NRL for Melbourne Storm and Gold Coast Titans between 2003 and 2007, before he moved to the UK to ply his trade with Hull KR, Castleford Tigers and York City Knights, before moving onto the Bulls.

 

Webster will be reunited with Castleford for his testimonial following a successful spell with the Tigers. He notched up 49 tries in 125 appearances in the Tigers jersey, recording a total of 196 points, between 2013 and 2018.

He was the first Melbourne-born player to play for the Melbourne Storm and was a member of the inaugural Gold Coast Titans squad during the 2007 season.

Webster also starred on the international stage, scoring five tries in eight games for New Zealand between 2005 and 2007.

Webster joined Cougars on an initial two-year deal after a successful sole year at Bulls, where he scored 11 tries in 25 appearances for a total of 44 points.

Webster was one of only 14 players contracted to Bulls, due to the club being placed in special measures, and was expected to be key to any promotion push from the Championship next season. He had previously signed a two-year deal at the Bulls.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Jake Webster, centre, in possession during his spell at Bradford Bulls Jake Webster, centre, in possession during his spell at Bradford Bulls (Image: Tom Pearson)

He proved a popular figure among Bulls fans during his one season at Odsal, with many of them shocked at his departure. He was part of the Bulls side that played in the last game at Odsal for the club after 85 years as they faced Sheffield Eagles in September 2019. The Bulls returned to their home in May 2021.

In September this year it was announced that Webster had been appointed as an assistant coach at the Cougars, working alongside head coach Rhys Lovegrove as the club plans for life in Betfred League One from next season.

Webster said there were many reasons for his switch to Cougar Park including re-uniting with his former Hull KR team-mate, Lovegrove, but it was the chance to work among the town's community groups which really struck a chord.

Webster was immediately billed as 'Captain Cougar' by club owner Mick O'Neill, a title he seemed to have already taken to his heart. He says he was looking forward to visiting the town's schools, businesses and hospitals to spread the Cougars word.

Tickets for the testimonial clash are now on sale. Those aged from 12 to 16 and aged 65 or over and students with valid ID all qualify for concession rates for this fixture. Tickets are priced £15 for adults, £10 for concessions and free for children aged under 12.

Go to tickets.keighleycougars.uk for more information. Hospitality for the testimonial clash is also available for seats or a table, priced £30 per person. Email jw3testimonial@gmail.com to book or for more information.