HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS’ latest recruit Jeylan Hodgson has a simple mission: “I want to prove everybody wrong.”
The 21-year-old hooker has signed a two-year contract at Huddersfield after spending the past two seasons with Goole Vikings.
It’s a return to Super League after progressing through Hull FC’s academy into the first team, only to be released without making an appearance.
He also spent time training with Hull KR ahead of this season, only to return to Championship side Goole, where he scored eight tries in 26 matches this season to add to three in 13 the previous year in the old League One.
But the nephew of former England hooker Josh Hodgson and brother of back Bailey Hodgson, who will soon join Hull from Leigh Leopards, is determined to make an impact at the top level this time.
“I’ve been in a full-time environment before and I let that go, so this time around I want to prove everybody wrong,” he said.
“I’ve spoken with Jim (Lenihan, Huddersfield coach), he’s watched me play for Goole and he’s pleased to have me on board.”
Hodgson joins Australian Zac Woolford in the Giants’ hooking department, while Kruise Leeming is also expected to join from Wigan Warriors.
“I can learn a lot from Zac Woolford – he’s in my opinion one of the best hookers in the league,” added Hodgson.
“It’s a great opportunity for me and I can’t wait to get started.”
Huddersfield’s director of rugby, Andy Kelly, said: “He’s in a great age range to be able to develop in our squad.
“In the weeks we’ve watched him play, he’s been the standout player and a player that other Super League clubs have looked at.”
Hodgson is Huddersfield’s second confirmed signing for next season after Gold Coast Titans prop Jaimin Jolliffe, as they look to continue their rebuild under Lenihan when they move to Dewsbury’s FLAIR Stadium.