Mitch Clark was released from his Sheffield Eagles contract on Tuesday by mutual consent but has now joined York Knights.
The 31-year-old joined Sheffield Eagles ahead of the 2024 season from Newcastle Thunder, and went on to make a total of 27 appearances including their 1895 Cup final defeat to Wakefield Trinity at Wembley last season.
The club cited compassionate grounds as the reason for his exit, with Clark having issues being away from his family for an extended period of time.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Sheffield Eagles Head Coach Craig Lingard said: “He had some personal issues in terms of travelling. He lives quite a long way away from Sheffield.
“His wife’s currently pregnant as well so [he’s] spending a lot of time away from home, so it was putting a lot of stress and strain on his own life.”
Lingard said he understood Clark’s situation and respected his decision.
He said: “Ultimately, sport is sport and the main thing that we need to be looking after with people is their own life and making sure that their personal circumstances are right.
“The first thing that I said at the start of the season when I took over was, ‘If anyone wants to leave for whatever reason, just come and let me know’ because I want people at the club who are committed.
“If people aren’t enjoying it or any other circumstances then come and speak to me and we’ll sort that out. We’ve managed to sort that out for Mitch, and hopefully his circumstances are going to improve in his own life.”
Sheffield Eagles will be hoping for a win against Yorkshire rivals Doncaster in the first round of the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup this weekend, and a trip back to Wembley at the end of the season.
Lingard said: “The players, they put the goal of having a real good dig at the 1895 Cup.
“Performance wise we need to be at the top of our game to make sure that we beat Doncaster at the weekend.”
It was announced earlier today that Clark has joined York on a two and a half year contract as the Knights looked to strengthen their squad after defeats at the beginning of the Championship season.
Sheffield Eagles thanked Clark for all he had done for the club, and wished him the best with his future endeavours.
Clark is available for York’s Sunday AB Sundecks 1895 Cup tie against Halifax Panthers.