Hunslet’s push for promotion from this season’s Betfred League 1 has been bolstered by the key captures by head coach Alan Kilshaw of several highly experienced players.
But the wily Kilshaw stressed, when he joined the south Leeds outfit a couple of years ago, that his focus is also on young, and local, talent.
‘Killer; has been true to his word, and three such recent acquisitions are really making their mark this season.
Brad Wheeler, at just 18, has made a big impression in the threequarters in his opportunities so far after having been snapped up from local amateur giants Hunslet Amateurs.
Joe Burton (21), who can play anywhere in the backs, is with his local club (and with his dad, Danny, who is on the coaching staff) after having completed a route involving Leeds Rhinos and, latterly, a Bradford Bulls outfit that was keen to retain his services.
Yet another highly promising youngster is 22-year-old hooker Danny Barcoe, who joined the Parksiders from Stanningley.
‘Killer’ is delighted with the progress of each and said: “One thing I highlighted when I came to the club was the turnover of players. We have also had a big turnover so far under me, but we are working towards the core of the side been local lads, which underpins our culture.
“Our approach this season has been for strong and experienced players to supplement that core, while that fact that many of our squad are local strengthens the connection with our loyal fan-base.”
He added: “Brad, at 18, has had some really good involvements. We feel that there is a lot of development in him, but the fact that he has contributed so well at his age is exciting for the future.
“Joe, who only turned 21 last month, has been a stand-out player, showing his versatility in playing well at centre, fullback, wing and even stand-off. And Danny, who joined us in the off-season, is another young local player who has performed really well for us.
“We want to go on a journey as a club – and we want these young players to be at the forefront of that.”
