Hunslet sign Reece Chapman-Smith from Dewsbury Rams: Leeds Rhinos academy product is new coach Alan Kilshaw's first recruit

FORMER LEEDS Rhinos academy player Reece Chapman-Smith has become new Hunslet coach Alan Kilshaw’s first signing.

The 22-year-old outside-back has joined Hunslet from Dewsbury Rams and is in contention to make his debut at home to Keighley Cougars on Sunday.

Chapman-Smith joined Rhinos’ youth system from Oulton Raiders and then moved to Betfred Championship outfit Halifax.

He had a three-game spell on loan with Hunslet during his time at the Shay.

Chapman-Smith said: “It’s good to be back.

“When I received a call from Alan I jumped at the chance to come down.

“I’ve been playing amateur rugby league recently at Oulton Raiders and enjoyed my spell there, but I wanted to get back into the semi-pro’ game again and the opportunity with Hunslet was too good to turn down.”

Kilshaw was appointed on Tuesday, two weeks after previous boss Gary Thornton’s dismissal.

Chapman-Smith added “I trained with the lads on Tuesday, which was Alan’s first session and I’m hoping to be involved in our game against Keighley.

“I am looking forward to taking part in our remaining eight game and seeing what we can achieve.”

Kilshaw is “delighted to get Reece over the line so quickly”.

He said: “He is a good athlete and can cover a number of positions.

“He had a really strong pre-season at Dewsbury, but didn’t get an opportunity to show what he can do.

“We can give him that opportunity at Hunslet and I expect him to thrive in this environment.”

Kilshaw is understood to be close to adding a prop with Super League experience to Hunslet’s squad.

The Parksiders have a vacancy in the front-row after Zach Braham left the club.

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