Leeds Rhinos announce contract extension for young member of full-time squad
Leeds Rhinos have agreed a contract extension to keep young forward Oliver Smart at the club next season.
The 20-year-old former Siddal junior joined Rhinos’ academy in 2024 and was ever-present for the reserves in their Grand Final-winning campaign last year. He went on to earn a full-time contract for this term which has now been extended until the end of 2027.
Smart trains alongside the first team as a member of Rhinos’ transition group and part of his role is to help with preparations for Betfred Super League matches. He insisted: “I’m really pleased.
“One part of it was nice peace of mind, going through the season knowing you’re going to be here next year. When it was offered there were no doubts I was going to sign. I’ve really enjoyed my time here and I’m happy to be extending it.
“It’s really nice they are putting some faith in me. They were the club that gave me a chance and for them to continue that faith is a big boost of confidence. To know they are looking after all aspects in every grade, it’s just a really good, positive feeling.”
Rhinos’ transition coach Chev Walker added: “I am pleased for Oliver that he gets the chance to build on the hard work he has done this year. Brad [Arthur, Rhinos’ head-coach] has spoken many times about how important the role of Oliver and the other guys in the wider first team squad has been this season.
“They challenge the guys with the first team shirt in training every day to be at their best and that can only improve them individually and collectively as a group as they mature together.”