Leeds Rhinos’ Morgan Gannon has been swatting off defenders in Super League but spends half his time swotting up in books.
The strapping teenager is tipped for stardom and has proved a big hit since bursting onto the scene last year.
Gannon debuted for England Knights at just 17 and has produced quality performances that belie his years. But he’s been doing all this while still grafting for his A-levels.
Gannon plays again as Leeds visit Warrington in Friday's televised clash. But with most of the country partying for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, he’ll then be back to his studies given it’s the exam season. Gannon, 18, said: “I had business and physics last week and I’ve got maths next.
“I’ve nine exams in total and two are down. But it’s balancing well. I’m still able to train which is good and I just make sure I do revision and get any work done on a night. I’m keeping up with it and have done the last couple of years.
“I train every session and if I have to miss college I get the work and complete it on an evening. It has been tough. There’s times when you just want to come home from training, chill and not think about anything. But you have to get the books out and do some school work. It was quite difficult to start with but I’ve got into the routine now.”
Gannon lives in Halifax with his parents and his older brother Jacob is on Warrington’s books. Having now turned 18, does it get tempting to sack it all off and do what his mates are doing like hitting the pubs? He said: "It is a discipline.
“I have to say ‘no.’ My mates have been good with it. When I do say ‘no’ they understand and know the reasons why. You want to enjoy yourself don’t you? But I have a focus on rugby and that’s where my head’s at. I’d prefer to be playing Super League than going out so it’s the discipline I have to have.”
And it has served him well so far. With his strong runs and big defence, Gannon has already secured himself a regular Rhinos spot. The son of ex-Huddersfield prop Jim Gannon, he said: “I’m really enjoying it.
“I’m really happy with the amount of games I’ve played and the way I’m playing. It’s good I’m getting rewards after some of the sacrifices I’ve had to make. It is more motivation when I’m having to work on a night. We’re looking for another good performance at Warrington.”
Gannon recently signed a new four-year deal and Leeds today announced fellow forward Jarrod O’Connor, 20, has joined him by extending until the end of 2025.
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