Halifax Panthers have signed Huddersfield Giants player Sam Hewitt on a season-long loan.
Hewitt, 21, a backrower or centre, made his Super league debut against Leeds Rhinos in 2018 after coming through the Giants’ Academy, and so far he has made 21 Super League appearances and scored one try.
Hewitt made one appearance for Halifax against the York City Knights in 2020.
“If you look at the the ambition of the club with the quality of signings that have been made, it’s obvious that the goal come the end of the season is to be right up there with a chance to win something and that’s important for me as I want to win,” said Hewitt.
“I think the squad will be aiming for a top-4 finish with the aim to win something at the back end of year and, with the quality in the squad, I believe that is a very realistic goal. “
Halifax coach Simon Grix is delighted to have secured Hewitt’s services.
“Sam had a great year last year with some strong performances for the Giants,” said Grix.
“He’s motivated and wants to play at the top of the game and therefore will need to perform well to get the shot, so it’s a win-win scenario.
“Having had Sam on dual-registration, we know what we are getting, both as a player and person, so we look forward to him joining us, adding to the competition within our forwards.”
Huddersfield Managing Director Richard Thewlis is happy to see Hewitt join the Panthers to aid his development in the game.
“The development of younger players has been hugely affected, as we are all aware, by the Covid pandemic and, as the rules stand at the moment, there will be no reserve games nor the opportunity to dual-register players in the Betfred 2021 Season.
“Of course that may change in time. However, for the here and now it is essential for Sam’s development as a player that he plays every week and the opportunity at Halifax is excellent. He will complete the entire pre-season with us and then get game time in what looks like a very strong Halifax side that most believe will be competing at the top end of the Championship.”
“The relationship that we have with Halifax is excellent at all levels and I sincerely hope that they can gain the promotion to the Betfred Super League that they are striving for and we can enjoy our derby tussles and local rivalry again.”
