Over the years we have seen a number of Super League’s biggest stars ply their trade in the Championship before making the move up.
The likes of Alex Walmsley, Zak Hardaker and Chris Hill have set the Championship scene alight before moving to Super League, where they have gone on to become major hits.
But who are the next set of stars preparing to take Super League by storm? We’ve profiled five stars who have big careers ahead of them.
Macauley Hallett (Swinton)
Position: Centre
Age: 20
Hallett almost became a Super League star this season after earning himself a trial at Huddersfield Giants, weeks after signing for Swinton. However, since returning to the Lions, Hallett has been in impressive form and has scored six tries in eight appearances this season.
He already has Super League experience after making two appearances for Hull KR in the 2014 season, and was highly regarded there before leaving at the end of last season.
Quick, agile and a good communicator, Hallett has the potential to make it at the top.
Adam O’Brien (Bradford)
Position: Hooker
Age: 22
Along with Lee Gaskell, O’Brien is the heart and soul of the current Bradford Bulls team.
His excellent defence is matched by his creativity around the ruck, creating numerous tries as he scampers away following a quick play. Beyond that, O’Brien is a great leader for his age and also kicks well, making him a fine asset for the Bulls. In fact, they value him so highly that Bradford frequently play with no hooker on the bench, such is his importance and stamina.
Leeds Rhinos were rumoured to be in for him last year, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if a Super League club came calling soon.
Ben Reynolds (Leigh Centurions)
Position: Halfback
Age: 22
Reynolds actually started the year at Dewsbury, but Leigh recalled the halfback ahead of Ryan Brierley’s departure from the club.
Since then the Centurions have gone from strength to strength, with Reynolds playing a key role in Leigh’s ascent to the top of the league.
His ability to replace the likes of Brierley and Rangi Chase are a testament to his performances, and he is certainly one to watch out for.
Dave Scott (Batley)
Position: Full-back
Age: 22
Following a stunning performance earlier this year, Scott’s head coach John Kear said: “If he was six inches bigger and a couple of stone heavier he’d be playing in Super League.”
Scott has been magnificent for Batley this year, backing up an impressive season last year when he won Scotland’s Player of the Year award.
Despite his stature, Scott is brave and intense as the last line of defence for the Bulldogs, and joins Batley’s attack seamlessly. Among a number of additions that have boosted the Bulldogs, Scott has perhaps been the best.
George Tyson (Sheffield Eagles)
Position: Centre
Age: 22
Before joining the Eagles, Tyson’s former coach Scott Naylor stated that Tyson could play in Super League.
While he hasn’t got his move yet, Tyson is now in a full-time environment at the Sheffield Eagles and has put on some impressive displays, notably against Bradford when he scored a spectacular individual try in the Eagles’ shock win at Odsal.
Under the watch of legendary centre Keith Senior, Tyson has the makings of a real star.
