HUNSLET coach Dean Muir hopes Kevin Larroyer will prove to be the old head who helps lead his side to new achievements.
For the coach, that will include establishing the Leeds club back in the second tier after a nine-year absence.
Hunslet won promotion from a final position of fourth in League One in Muir’s first season at the helm.
The against-the-odds success sparked a signings spree, with the club having to work quickly to assemble a squad they believe can keep them up.
French backrower Larroyer has moved after six seasons at Halifax, previously playing for Toulouse, Catalans, Hull KR, Castleford and Leigh.
The 35-year-old has also made 15 appearances for Les Bleus, and Muir said: “Kevin was one we identified and went for early on.
“He obviously has bags of experience, but he also looks after himself really well and brings a real presence and professional approach.
“We have a mix of ages in the group, and he will set a high standard and help bring on the younger lads, both on the pitch and around the club.
“We are working hard to instil a really positive culture, and Kevin fits that perfectly. He’ll be an important signing.”
Muir has also signed seasoned operators in backs Greg Eden and Liam Welham.
Ex-Castleford man Eden, 34, joined after his departure from Featherstone, having started last season alongside Larroyer at Halifax, while Welham, 36, has moved from Midlands Hurricanes.
“Greg is a massive signing for us. He buys into what we want,” added Muir.
“His knowledge and what he can bring to a young group as we navigate a tough Championship will be invaluable, as will his speed.
“And as with Kevin, we can really tap into and utilise his leadership skills.
“Liam has caused us problems when playing against him. He is smart and can operate in multiple positions with ease.”
Muir’s side start their league campaign with a trip to Barrow on Sunday, then host Bradford a week later.
