HUNSLET’S development work in south Leeds and the surrounding area is about to take another major step forward.

The club, through the ever-active Hunslet Foundation, is appointing Tyler Finister, on Friday 1 April 2022, as full-time development officer.

Mikey Nuttall, who has successfully occupied the position for several years, will adopt a managerial role, and the pair will work closely together in nurturing Rugby League and a range of other sports in local schools and similarly pro-active organisations.

Finister and Nuttall are already very aware that they are more than capable of working in perfect harmony. As Mikey explains: “We go back a long way, to when we were in our mid-teens, in fact, when we were both glass collectors at Hunslet Carr Sports & Social club, a happy experience that has stood us both in good stead. We’re looking forward to getting together again for the good of our favourite sport.”

Hunslet have, in addition, recently been involved in the launch of a couple of initiatives for folk much older than school age. Over 40s touch & pass sessions – which are free – are taking place every Wednesday (6.30pm to 7.30pm) at Hunslet Warriors’ ground at LS10 2AT as part of Luke Gale’s `Kicking for Grassroots’ project.

And, for those of a more sedate disposition, the Over 65s breakfast club in the Phoenix Bar, at the South Leeds Stadium, is already proving to be hugely popular each and every Monday morning, from 9.45am to 11.45am. It’s a chance to catch up with friends, enjoy a range of activities, and discuss everything Hunslet and Rugby League.

The Foundation, meanwhile, is sponsoring Hunslet’s home Betfred League 1 game with Oldham on Sunday (3 April, 3.00pm).

“I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to manage the Foundation and to continue working closely with our great board,” said Nuttall, who added: “We have been anticipating bringing Tyler in for a while. He and I have been friends for some years and he got in touch with me about doing a placement year for his university. He had no experience in coaching but a year down the line he has become a fantastic coach and deservedly becomes our new development officer. We’re looking forward to the great work we have ahead of us, and to continuing working closely with our partners.”

Finister said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time with the Foundation and working alongside Mikey, who has helped me develop skills I didn’t know I had.

“Seeing how rewarding it is to work with young children and adults in this community made me excited to take on the role as full-time development officer. The community thrives on sport and it’s something I am passionate to deliver, ensuring that we grow the game through our schools and our community clubs and hopefully help the Foundation progress even further.”