TWO of Warrington Wolves’ brightest academy stars have committed to professional contracts with the club.

Half-back Riley Dean and second rower Connor Wrench, both 17, have signed full-time deals, with the former tied to the club until November 2021.

Wrench will turn full time when he completes his education next May and his deal runs until November 2022.

Academy head coach Paul Anderson is convinced both will be Super League players in the future.

“We are really happy that Connor and Riley have extended their stay, with both players having come through the junior system at Warrington Wolves with the backing of the Supporters’ Trust Squadbuilder scheme,” he said.

“In my short time at the club both have proven they have the desire and work ethic to match their undoubted talent.

“I’m confident that they are Super League players in the making, if they stay humble and continue to work hard.”

Warrington-born Wrench – a former Crosfields and Woolston Rovers junior – has an impressive record of five tries in nine appearances for the under 19s this season.

He is keen to make the most of his chance to train in the first-team environment.

“It’s a massive honour to play for my home-town club and it is my ultimate aim to get in the Warrington first team, especially having come from the scholarship all the way through to the academy,” he said.

“I wasn’t expecting it this early but the hard work seems to have paid off and I have to just keep going now until I get there.

“It’s all about improving my skills, playing and training with better players and learning off them. Hopefully I can improve my game off the back of that.

“There are great coaches throughout this club so whoever I am training with, be it academy or first team, they all have lots to share to help me improve.”

Dean, who came through the ranks at Siddal, hailed Anderson’s impact on his development and that of his teammates.

“It’s a massive honour to have been recognised by the club,” he said.

“Everyone in the academy is reaching to get this offer and the opportunity to train with the first team. I’m now looking to progress my game and my career here.

“Since Paul Anderson has come in, not just myself but all the academy lads have progressed and blossomed in his short time so far.

“It’s a massive opportunity for me now. Warrington is such a prestigious club that is always there or thereabouts fighting for trophies.

“I want to continue doing well for the academy first and foremost. Hopefully we can make the top four and qualify for the play-offs this year.

“My long-term aim is to progress to the first team and a secure a spot going forward.”