Hunslet RLFC are pleased to announce the signing of York City Knights prop forward Dan Hawksworth.

Hawksworth 25,  has signed a one-year contract with the Parksiders and becomes Gary Thornton’s second signing of the off season following the capture of Richard Moore from Featherstone Rovers

The former Sheffield Eagles academy product caught the eye of James Ford while impressing for Hemel Stags in 2017 and put pen to paper on a one-year deal following a successful trial with the Knights.

Dan made 13 appearances for the Knights scoring 3 tries as they went on to claim the Betfred League 1 title. He also played in the Knights Challenge Cup clash against Super League outfit Catalan Dragons.

Gary Thornton commented “Dan joins us following a successful season with York City Knights, where he helped them gain promotion to the Championship.

“He is a big, athletic front rower, who will add size and power to our pack.

“He runs hard and tackles aggressively and has a terrific work ethic.

“He has been under the radar a little, spending time at Sheffield as a youngster, but is now starting to fulfil his potential and developed well last year.

“He brings a high level of enthusiasm and desire to succeed, and we are delighted to have captured his signature, and look forward to him becoming an integral part of our squad.”

Dan commented “I’m really excited to get started at such a historic club.

“I’m looking forward to working hard to establish myself as a regular at a top side in league one.

“I already know a few great lads at the club and I’ll do everything in my power to try get us promoted next season.

“After speaking with Gary and the coaching staff it was an easy decision to sign and I can’t wait to get stuck into pre-season in November.”

The club can also announce that a number of last season squad have left the Parksiders.

Director of Rugby Darren Williams has revealed that Liam Mackay, Daley Williams, Jack Coventry, Jack Walton, Gavin Duffy, Will Cooke, Matt Nicholson, Danny Halmshaw & Brad Foster will not be at the club in 2019.

Williams said “After a disappointing finish to our 2018 season and sitting down with Gary Thornton and his coaching team we agreed that we needed to freshen up the squad.

“All the departing players leave with our best wishes for the future but in particular I just wanted to thank Liam Mackay who has been at the club five years after joining from Featherstone Rovers in 2013.

“Macca has been the ultimate professional both on and off the field and has always given 100% commitment to the club.

“Macca is very much respected amongst staff, players & supporters alike and leaves as a friend of the club.”

To sponsor Dan in 2019 email darren.williams@hunsletrlfc.com