Last updated at 11:53, Tuesday, 11 December 2012

Hooker Carl Sice has double reason to celebrate after penning a fresh deal for next term AND being granted a testimonial campaign in 2013.

Carl Sice

The former Kells amateur joined Haven from Workington Town on a three-year deal in April, 2003, and is on the verge of becoming the most prolific No 9 in the club’s history.

And chief executive Barry Richardson believes Sice, who turns 33 in April, still has plenty to give.

“Sicey has a proven record at Championship level, and there’s going to be really good competition for the hooking role,” said Richardson, who is savouring the battle between Sice, Chris Smith and new recruit James Newton for the dummy-half position.

“We now have three quality hookers, though Sicey is a very different player to the other two. He will be looking for a big season and still has a lot to offer.”

Sice showed no signs of slowing up last term, when he made his international debut for Ireland, scoring eight tries in 21 outings, putting him on 86 for the club, just two less than Recre legend Aaron Lester. He went on to win the bleep test, which measures fitness, in Haven’s first pre-season training session.

“Carl’s been a great servant over the last 10 years, one of those who is willing to go out in to the community for the club,” added Richardson. “He has an ability to see a gap, and on the attacking side, he is a player some of our younger lads could learn from.”

Sice has proved a fans’ favourite over the past decade and his testimonial is likely to prove popular with Recre regulars.

First published at 11:48, Tuesday, 11 December 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk