Record-equalling number of teens sign first pro’ contracts at Rhinos

Leeds Rhinos have unveiled their latest generation of young players.

- by Peter Smith

Fifteen teenagers have signed their first professional contract with the club and will graduate from Rhinos' scholarship into the academy for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.

It is the joint-most scholarship players to sign on with the club, equalling the 2024 tally.

The players - who will be coached by new academy boss Simon Brown - are:

Bailey Hardy (winger, from the Lock Lane community club), Sonny Hetherington (centre, Lock Lane), Ryan Hosier (forward, Lock Lane), Connor Lawrie (prop, Featherstone Lions), Noah Lunn (hooker, Kippax);

Seth Marchant (halfback, Kippax), Jack Mears (halfback, Lock Lane), Sam Oldroyd (fullback, Stanningley), Daniel Shaw (second-row, Wakefield Hawks), Jack Smith (utility back, Kippax Welfare), Robin Smith (forward, Lock Lane);