Dean O’Loughlin has called time on his professional boxing career and has re-signed for Doncaster RLFC.

The 29 year-old former heavyweight had previously played for the club in 2005 when St John Ellis was head coach of the then known Doncaster Dragons.

O’Loughlin went on to play half a season for York City Knights during the 2006 season and played against his former employer’s Hull FC in a friendly before deciding to have a go at boxing full-time.

O’Loughlin had been on Hull FC’s books since the age of 17 and secured a full-time contract with the Black and Whites at the age of 21. He later went on to play for the first team on two occasions before the club released him which led to him joining the Dons first time round.

Tony Miller, head coach of the Dons, said: “We’ve been looking to strengthen the front row and we’re delighted to welcome Dean back to the club.

“Dean has been boxing professionally for the last four years at heavyweight level to a very high standard.

“He’s got both the size and strength we were looking for and will add a real presence to the team’s go forward.”

O’Loughlin commented: “I’ve been keeping tabs on rugby league and I always look out for the Dons’ results.

“I feel in good shape both physically and mentally and can’t wait to get back on the field again.

“I wouldn’t go anywhere else than the Dons and I’m really excited about the forthcoming season at the Keepmoat.”

welcome back Dean . Another piece in the jigsaw.

It's great to see Dean back. He was a very useful player when he was with us before - and just the type of player we need now.

An excellent signing!

what's his mind set like ?

I mean,with his boxing experience is he an agressive type who could collect yellow or red cards at will or does he have the self-control ?

He had perfect discipline when he played for us before. I remember one or two situations where he was a peace-maker when things got heated.

There was one particular incident I remember at Belle Vue where someone elbowed him when he was on the ground. Most would have not taken it too kindly to it. Dean didn't get involved.

I suspect that he knows that if he did hit someone they wouldn't get up - so steers clear!

I don't see him getting into any bother - his boxing discipline will be an asset, not a problem.

sounds like good business by Tony then ?

I can't even remember him ... so he must be good.


I'm starting to get a very bad feeling about the way things are going.

I can remember him, thought he was pretty handy at the time to be honest. Can remember being disappointed when he left

He was 23 then and played rugby regularly ....
I hope you are right.

A trip to the memory clinic for you StandOffish.

Yeah .... and on that note there is something special about today as well, but for the life of me I can't remember what it is.

I can't remember what happened yesterday ... sometimes! On the other hand I can remember some things from the past really well.

I remember that I was very disappointed when we lost Dean last time. I thought he had a big future in the game. I considered he had the ability to be one of the best props outside Super League. Hopefully he'll be as good now as he was then, and make a real impact for us.

I reckon he'll be a favourite with the fans.

If the quality of the rest of the 2012 signings are as good I'll be highly delighted.

Great work by TM and Dons staff to get Dean!

wasnt he abit prone to injury last time round? i could be wrong

This might be a bit the old memory can't remember so well



I don't recall him missing games. He was playing when Gaz Handford and James Walker were two of the other props.