Hunslet players back emergency measures

Rugby league at all levels, including Betfred League One, has been suspended since March 16.

With no income coming in and the squad unable to train together, coach Gary Thornton emailed his players last week urging them to accept furlough terms in line with existing contracts. Other payments, based on win bonuses so far this season, will be shared equally.

There was unanimous agreement from the club’s contracted players and Thornton said: “It’s very pleasing.

“One of the factors behind me signing - and retaining - players was character and that’s certainly been very evident in the lads’ collective attitude.

“That positive approach is one of the reasons for us currently being top of the table and will hopefully put us in a strong position to secure promotion as and when the 2020 campaign resumes.”

Hunslet’s players are keeping fit on their own and Thornton added: “We’re obviously unable to train as a group at the moment, but I’ve no reason to doubt all the players are putting the required work in, albeit in the relative comfort of their own homes.

“They’re all keen to get back into action and I know they are very aware of the work being done by the board on the club’s – and their – behalf.

“I’ve been very impressed by the pro-active approach to the impact of the coronavirus crisis by our directors, with no avenue unexplored as Hunslet seek solutions to the many challenges that face all professional sports clubs.”

There are fears some clubs will not survive the shutdown, but Thornton insisted: “I really do feel we are in a strong position.

“We have a very professional board, made up of volunteers, that brings many complementary skills and talents to the table and we have extremely committed players of real quality. Our backroom staff, including my assistant coaches Gary Barnett and Mark Cass, also have a great deal to offer and, of course, our supporters are as enthusiastic and vociferous as any in the competition.”

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