Rugby League Powerhouse Leeds Rhinos Secure Long-Term Futures of 15 Academy Prospects
Leeds, UK – In a move that underscores their commitment to developing homegrown talent, the Leeds Rhinos have handed new long-term deals to 15 members of their esteemed academy setup. This significant investment in the club’s future includes five current first-team squad players, further cementing the Rhinos’ reputation as a breeding ground for top-tier rugby league stars.
Among the standout signings are Riley Lumb, who has penned a four-year contract, and outside backs Ned McCormack and Alfie Edgell, both of whom have secured three-year deals after impressing in last weekend’s victory over Leigh Leopards. Forward Tom Nicholson-Watton and Ben Littlewood, who have already made their Super League debuts for Leeds in 2024, have also agreed new terms, with Nicholson-Watton signing until the end of next season and Littlewood committing his future to the Rhinos until 2027.
“Commenting on the news, Leeds Rhinos Sporting Director Ian Blease lauded the club’s long-standing commitment to nurturing young talent, highlighting the recent contributions of academy graduates Alfie Edgell and Ned McCormack. Blease also drew parallels to the success stories of current England internationals Ash Handley and Harry Newman, both of whom honed their skills within the Rhinos’ renowned youth system.”
Head of Youth John Bastian echoed Blease’s sentiments, describing the new deals as a “significant commitment” by the young players and the club. Bastian emphasized the depth of talent within this group, which covers all positions and is poised to push for starting roles in the Rhinos’ Super League squad in the years to come.
The standout signing of the bunch is promising forward Presley Cassell, who has put pen to paper on a five-year contract that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2028 season. Joining Cassell in securing long-term extensions are half-backs Fergus McCormack, Harry Smith and George Brown, as well as props Jayemm Oladipupo and Joe Butterfield, all of whom have signed four-year deals.
This robust investment in the Rhinos’ academy pipeline underscores the club’s unwavering focus on nurturing the next generation of rugby league superstars. As these young talents continue to develop and potentially break into the first-team, the future looks bright for the perennial Super League contenders.
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