Ex-Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone Rovers youngster Kiedan Hartley's new deal is big boost for Hunslet

The 20-year-old Leeds Rhinos academy product is rated by Parksiders' coach Gary Thornton as one of the brightest young talents in Betfred League One.

He said “Kiedan joined us in pre-season last year and immediately stood out and impressed the coaching staff in training and trial games with his pace, strength and footwork.

“That earned him a starting spot on the wing where he showed his ability and skill set.

"He was improving with every game, so it was important we kept him on board so he can continue with his progression

“Kiedan is primarily a full-back and he still has ambitions to play there, but his performances on the wing have shown how adaptable he can be - so he becomes a valuable member of the squad.”

Hartley said: “I was given a chance by Hunslet after a forgettable year at Featherstone and I’m very happy here.

"There was a real buzz in the camp earlier this year, the whole squad felt something special was about to happen.

“One or two lads have gone and we wish them well, but we’ve kept a good core and it feels a bit like unfinished business.

Hartley added: “You can have all the good players you like, but if they don’t gel, if there are lads in the team who won’t go the extra mile, you won’t do anything.

"We still have that and I’m delighted to be here. There’s a real craic at Hunslet, we’ve a great group of lads, I enjoy training and I enjoy my rugby.

"A big factor, too, is how the younger lads such as me are treated by the older ones.

"Dom Brambani for example has always been supportive.

"He’s a player who has done so much in his career. Sometimes blokes like that don’t take time to talk to the younger lads, but Dom – and the rest of the senior players – are nothing like that.

"They’re all totally supportive and welcoming, they just see everyone else as players.”

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Laura Collins