Rugby League Enthusiast Secures Championship Move After Reality TV Hiatus
Former Love Island star Jacques O’Neill has sealed a return to rugby league, signing a one-year deal with Championship outfit York for the 2025 season. The 25-year-old hooker hasn’t featured on the pitch since his appearance on the hit reality TV show’s eighth series in 2022, eventually departing the villa for mental health reasons.
Castleford Tigers, the club O’Neill left to take part in Love Island, had the first option to re-sign him if he decided to return to the sport. However, after sustaining an Achilles injury while on loan at Sheffield Eagles, the Barrow-born player admitted he wasn’t ready for a rugby league comeback at the time.
Now, O’Neill is set to make his long-awaited return, becoming York’s fifth signing ahead of the 2025 campaign. Prior to his Love Island stint, the 31-cap and three-try player had represented Leigh, Halifax Panthers, and Castleford Tigers.
“I’m made up to sign for York. They’re a good club with great aspirations and high standards, so I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Speaking on his move, O’Neill expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m made up to sign for York. They’re a good club with great aspirations and high standards, so I’m looking forward to getting started.” He also noted his familiarity with York’s head coach, Mark Applegarth, and the presence of his former teammate, Paul McShane.
Applegarth, who previously worked with O’Neill during his time at Wakefield, is confident the player can recapture his form, saying, “When he’s match fit, he’s a cracking player. I think he’ll really go well this year.”
The Askham junior will make his first appearance since September 2021 in this weekend’s historic dual-code ‘745 Game’ at Headingley, held in memory of Leeds Rhinos great Rob Burrow and late union great Doddie Weir.
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