HUNSLET coach Kyle Trout is confident he can help Harrison Gilmore reach his full potential.
The 21-year-old former Leeds second rower, who is fresh from landing the supporters’ player of the year award in his second season in the south of the city, has penned a contract extension for a third campaign.
Gilmore, a product of the Stanningley community club, will be aiming to add to 43 appearances for Hunslet, who aim to improve on a 13th-place finish in what will be Trout’s second full season in charge.
Having kept experienced stand-off Lee Gaskell and captain and versatile back Billy Jowitt on board, Trout is also eyeing a deal for Jordan Baldwinson, the Doncaster forward who has impressed on loan.
“Gilly is someone who has bags of potential and growth left in him and I am confident this is the right environment to help him unlock the rest of it,” said Trout.
“He has a physical presence and brings something different to our team with his offload ability.
“Part of the identity we want as a club is how we bring these young, hungry lads with huge potential in and help them improve.
“So far Gilly has proven to be a great example of that, and we are over the moon to keep hold of him.”
Gilmore said: “I have really enjoyed my time here. I have been made welcome from day one. The fans are class and get behind me and that’s been really pleasing.
“I believe in what Kyle is looking to build over the next few seasons and I want to be a part of that.
“I am a local lad also so the decision to stay was easy. I can’t wait to get back into pre-season and rip in.”