HUNSLET coach Kyle Trout is keen to build even stronger links with neighbours Hunslet ARLFC.
The amateur outfit’s hooker Jaden Barraclough turned out as a triallist in the senior team’s 42-30 Championship win at Keighley, when the depleted South Leeds Stadium side also fielded prop Joe Phillips and backrower Will Kirby on loan from Hull FC.
National League Premier Division Hunslet ARLFC are a leading operator within the community-game scene.
Semi-professional team Hunslet have used their neighbours’ facilities for training and the two clubs have held opposed sessions.
And Trout explained: “Their record over the years speaks for itself, and we have forged good links.
“Jaden has been playing well for them, so we wanted to give him a run-out. We were pleased with how he went, and hopefully the bond will get stronger still and we can create pathways.”
As well as Barraclough, who was previously at Bradford and had a loan stint at the old Cornwall club, Trout praised the attitude and performances of 20-year-olds Phillips, a former Leeds Academy player, and Kirby.
“For contracted players, maximum effort and playing for the badge is a minimum, but the three of them came in, had a couple of training sessions, and showed that same buy-in and commitment,” he said. “That’s the inclusive culture we are trying to build and what our supporters want to see.”