28-year-old Ryan, a hooker/loose forward, spent three seasons at the Tigers, from 2002 to 2004 leading the team from midway through the second of those seasons and rarely missing a match throughout his spell at the Jungle. He also captained Yorkshire to a successful 'War of the Roses' victory in 2003.

Ryan was hugely popular at the Jungle, the Tigers fans appreciating his 'never-say-die' approach to games and his tremendous work ethic. His loss following the clubs relegation in 2004 was a big blow and he will be warmly welcomed back to the club. Ryan joins us after 2 seasons with the Huddersfield Giants, the club where his career started in their Academy. He then switched to Wakefield before his first move to the Tigers.



Coach Terry Matterson said: "I understand that Ryan was a really popular guy with the fans at the Jungle, and having seen him this year for Huddersfield, I can see why, his form this season puts him in the top bracket of hookers in Super League.

"He is a good leader, a very committed player who gives his all for the team cause and is a real hard worker with plenty of skill which will be great attributes to bring to the team. We see Ryan as a key signing in building the club to the highest level and I'm looking forward to him linking up with us and am sure that he will contribute greatly to the squad both on and off the field."



Ryan said: "I'm relishing coming back at Cas and looking for a new challenge with the club. The club has top-six ambitions and they are recruiting well with some very good players coming on board. And there are already some top players at the club and some great youngsters, I will be looking to bring some additional leadership. I hope that I can play my part in helping us to reach the heights that the club have achieved in the past."



In his previous spell with the Tigers Ryan made 78 appearances (+8 sub), scoring 24 tries.