Super League sides Huddersfield Giants and Bradford Bulls have both reasserted their commitment to homegrown pathways after rewarding a wave of academy standouts with first-team contracts ahead of pre-season.

The double development highlights the strength of youth production across West Yorkshire, with both clubs moving to secure promising junior talent on long-term professional deals.

At Huddersfield, head coach Robinson and head of youth Steve Fox have promoted three bright academy prospects to full-time first-team contracts. 

Jude Jackson, Stan Hobson, and Lewis Bottomley have all signed two-year deals after excelling through the Giants’ development system.

The trio, who all progressed through the iconic Siddal junior rugby league pathway in Halifax, follow in the footsteps of first-team breakout star Lewis Jagger, who also signed a contract extension after featuring prominently in the top flight this season.

“What these players have achieved is a reflection not only of their own hard work and commitment, but also of the dedication of our coaching staff,” Giants Head of Youth Steve Fox stated. 

“To have produced eight Academy players who have progressed to sign first-team contracts over the last two years is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the strength of our youth programme.”

Bradford Bulls continue pathway momentum as Riley Gelder signs first-team contract

Across West Yorkshire, Bradford Bulls have made a similar statement by promoting rising star Riley Gelder to Kurt Haggerty’s senior squad.

Gelder, who impressed after earning a spot in the Bulls’ squad for their mid-season trip to Toulouse, has signed his first professional contract with the club and will link up with the first team when pre-season training commences at the end of October.

The deal follows senior debuts for fellow academy graduates Jamie Gill and Alfie Leake, further emphasising Odsal’s commitment to producing its own top-flight talent.

Bulls head coach Kurt Haggerty praised Gelder’s work ethic and progression into the senior environment.

“I’ve been really impressed with Riley,” Haggerty said. “He’s trained with the first team quite a few times this year, and we obviously took him over to Toulouse and gave him that experience. 

“He’s a first-class young man, he’s very studious, and he’s worked extremely hard to give himself the opportunity to become a full-time rugby player.

“It shows the faith we have in our pathway system. You’ve seen lads like Alfie Leake and Jamie Gill have the opportunity to step up, and it will be no different for Riley.”

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