YORK Knights have snapped up former Newcastle Thunder utility back Alex Donaghy on a one-year deal. 

Andrew Henderson has added utility back Donaghy to his Knights ranks from Newcastle Thunder, following the club's decision to pull out of the 2024 season, with the 22-year-old becoming the Knights' seventh season after their elimination from the Betfred Championship play-offs in October. 

Donaghy is a product of the Newcastle Thunder academy, having worked his way through the academy set-up before becoming an established member of the first-team after making his debut in 2020. 

Having also featured at full-back, Donaghy went on to make 49 appearances for Newcastle and scored 15 tries, six of which came in the 2023 season in 26 starts. 

The 22-year-old was also the first player to feature at all levels of Thunder's academy and became a fan favourite during his time in the North East.

Donaghy becomes the seventh new face to sign on to the Knights, alongside playmaker Richie Myler who joined the club on Monday afternoon.