Signing contract extension an ‘easy decision’ says Leeds Rhinos hooker Kruise Leeming
The 25-year-old, whose previous deal was due to expire this autumn, has committed himself to Rhinos until the end of 2024.
Fellow forward James Donaldson’s contract extension, which is 12 months shorter, was announced on Tuesday.
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Hide AdLeeming, who joined Rhinos from Huddersfield Giants in November, 2019, said agreeing new terms was an “easy decision”.
He said: “The staff, players and fans have made me feel so welcome.
“To renew after just one year at the club says a lot.
“I am overwhelmed and thankful to [coach] Richard Agar in particular for the faith he has shown in me.
“My job now is to repay that faith over the next four years.”
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Hide AdRhinos kick off their Betfred Super League campaign against Wakefield Trinity at Emerald Headingley in two days’ time.
“I don’t think I have ever been this excited about the start of the season,” Leeming said.
“We had a successful year last year, but I haven’t played in front of the Leeds Rhinos fans yet and that is something I am desperate to do this season.”
He added: “I have had a good pre-season and feel the fittest and fastest I have ever felt.
“Hopefully I can make 2021 my year.
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Hide Ad“Professional sport does have a cruel reality when it comes to contracts - if you don’t perform it can cost you your livelihood - so it is nice to be rewarded for my hard work and have that security with a long-term deal.
“It is a boost to my confidence to be able to build over the next few years.”
Agar welcomed Leeming’s commitment.
“I am pleased for Kruise, he is still only 25 and a player with great potential,” he said.
“We have got good competition for the hooking spot in the team and that is only good for the squad as a whole.
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Hide Ad“I think Kruise has worked hard to improve his game over the last season and I am sure he can continue that progression throughout 2021 and beyond.”
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