Luke Hooley says it is a 'dream come true' to secure a Super League opportunity with Leeds Rhinos. The Batley Bulldogs star has agreed a two-year deal at Headingley from the beginning of next season, becoming Rohan Smith's latest addition to his 2023 squad.
Hooley, who has worked with Smith in the past during the pair's time together at Bradford Bulls, has been a revelation for Batley in the Championship. He has scored 30 tries in 55 appearances and played a pivotal role in helping the club reach last weekend's Million Pound Game.
He has also spent time at the likes of Wakefield, Oldham and Dewsbury - but will return to the big time with Leeds next year after catching the eye of the Rhinos. “I can’t wait to get started at Leeds, to join the Rhinos is a dream come true especially getting another chance in Super League with such a big club," he said.
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"Rohan was a big influence on my decision, I knew him from my time at Bradford and it was a no brainer to work with him again. I think it is massive for players in the Championship to know they can get another shot at Super League. When I left Wakefield I thought I was done and would never play in Super League.
"But it just goes to show if you work hard, enjoy your rugby again and get some games under your belt that anything can happen. Batley have looked after me from the first day I arrived at the club and shown my family and I nothing but respect. Every credit should go to Batley for putting me in the right direction to where I am today and I will always be grateful to the club."
Smith added: “Luke has matured a lot as a player over the past few seasons at Batley and a great deal of credit has to go to the coaching team at Batley, who have done a great job in helping Luke realise his potential. We have tracked him closely this season and see Luke as a quality all round fullback, who will add depth and competition to our squad.”
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