Castleford Tigers’ new signing Joe Stimson has spoken for the first time since completing his move to the Jungle with the 29-year-old revealing how his Super League switch happened.
Stimson was confirmed as a Castleford player on Monday, just over a week after the Tigers had released Judah Rimbu to make space on their overseas quota.
The 29-year-old brings plenty of experience having made over 100 NRL appearances and he’s set to be a key part of Danny McGuire’s pack over the next 18 months, having signed a deal until the end of the 2026 season.
Speaking to club media, the former Gold Coast Titans man explained just how quickly the transfer happened with Castleford’s new Director of Rugby Chris Chester pivotal in the deal.
“I got in at lunchtime yesterday (Monday) and it happened really quickly,” Stimson explained.
“We probably got the ball rolling two weeks ago when Chris (Chester) reached out to my manager and we got talking, then in the space of two weeks, I’m over here.
“It happened really quickly but I’m really excited for the opportunity.”
Chester hasn’t long been at Castleford but his impact is evident for all to see already and recruiting Stimson is just the latest example of that.
Capable of playing at prop or second-row, the 29-year-old brings size to a pack that has recently added Tom Amone as well.
Discussing what fans can expect from him, Stimson explained: “I really enjoy playing footy, ball-playing and defence and probably just my effort areas.”
Effort areas will be something that all fans want to hear with Castleford having been accused of rolling over earlier in the season but they’re now making a far better fist of games.
Despite only arriving this week, Stimson is a chance of playing on Saturday night when Castleford host Wigan with that game live on the BBC Red Button.
Talking about Super League, he said: “I watch a bit of Super League and it’s a very quality comp and I’ve always wanted to do it, to come over here and experience England and the Super League.
“I’m a big fan of the Jungle, I’ve watched it on TV a lot and the crowd is unbelievable. I’m looking forward to playing against Wigan if I get a start and getting a win.”
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