FORMER York Knight Ben Dent has signed for Betfred League One newcomers Goole Vikings.

The 33-year-old most recently plied his trade with NCL Premier Division side Heworth but has been convinced to return to professional rugby with the Vikings from 2025.

Dent, who began his career with the Knights, scored 37 tries in 79 appearances between 2012 and 2017 before joining Newcastle Thunder.

A spell in rugby union with York RUFC then followed, with the German international transitioning from an outside back to also play in the second row or at loose forward.

Recommended reading:

He is Goole’s 13th recruit ahead of their maiden season in the sport’s third tier and will reunite with former Knights Jack and Harry Aldous at the East Yorkshire club.

Ex-Betfred Super League favourites Jamie Shaul and Brett Ferres, Josh Guzdek, Alex Holdstock, Reece Dean, Callum Rutland and local talents Tom Halliday and Ben Hodder have also signed up for 2025.

Vikings head coach Scott Taylor believes Dent’s experience and versatility will prove invaluable as his side negotiate the step up to professional rugby.

 “We have been looking for a number of players that can bring us some experience and leadership to help our young squad, as well as a bit of versatility and utility value - and Ben really ticks both those boxes for us,” he enthused.

“He has been around the game at this level for a long time, he is liked and well-respected and knows a lot of our team well.

“He is a really capable performer in a number of positions and I think that will prove to be invaluable for us across the season.”

Dent believes the squad has a lot of potential to be competitive in League One, adding: “It’s an exciting prospect to be joining Goole. Scott’s done a fantastic job in building a squad that will be competitive in League One.

“As I am based in York, it means I’m only a stone throw away, but like I said before I want to be part of something special and this squad has huge potential.

“Throughout my career, I’ve played in various positions. As I’ve grown older, I’ve gotten closer to the middle, but I’m comfortable doing just about anything the team needs.”