text: Keighley hope Webster can be springboard for new Cougarmania | Keighley News
  Jake Webster is pictured going over for a Bulls try in their win over Leeds Rhinos in May Pictures: Tom Pearson
  KEIGHLEY want Jake Webster to be the springboard to a new chapter of 'Cougarmania' after his shock move from Bradford Bulls was confirmed by both clubs.
  As exclusively revealed by the T&A and sister paper Keighley News earlier today, the Australia-born centre has signed a two-year contract at Cougar Park.
  The deal will also see Webster work in the community as 'Captain Cougar' alongside the League One outfit as part of an exciting new initiative to be launched by Cougars director Mike Smith.
  Along with chairman Mick O'Neill, Smith was part of the successful Cougarmania period of the mid-1990s when the club signed Joe Grima from Widnes. The Australian went on to captain Cougars to promotion and earned plaudits for his work in the community, with Keighley hoping Webster can make a similar impact.
  Cougars head of rugby Gary Moorby said: "The signing of Jake is a major statement of the club's intent.
  "Mick O'Neill and his fellow directors of the club have backed up their promise of bringing success to the club in securing the services of the former New Zealand international to Cougar Park.
  "His presence in the changing rooms alone will inspire huge confidence amongst our younger players.
  "I'm sure I speak on behalf of myself and Rhys when I say what a major coup this truly is for the club."
  Webster's move halfway through a two-year deal with Bulls leaves them with just 13 contracted players as they remain in special measures imposed by the RFL.
  Bradford are currently waiting for a change of ownership to be ratified, with a consortium led by Chris Brereton looking to take over from Andrew Chalmers.
  Head coach John Kear said of Webster's departure: "I would like to thank Jake for his efforts during his time here, he was a true leader and I have nothing but respect for him.
  "I and the club would like to wish him all the best. It was an opportunity that was too good for him to turn down at this stage in his career.
  "He has been a great role model and has set a great example for the younger players in the squad and there is an opportunity now for someone to stake their claim for a place in the squad."