Father of Andy Farrell, Peter Farrell, becomes Leeds Rhinos’ first Talent Scout in the North West

Leeds Rhinos have appointed Peter Farrell to be their first Talent Scout to work in the North West region.

In doing so, the West Yorkshire club will be attempting to rival the likes of Wigan Warriors, St Helens and Warrington Wolves for the best talent in the area.

Farrell, who is the father of Wigan legend Andy Farrell, will work alongside the club’s academy staff in order to identify players for the academy set-up.

He comes with a wealth of experience having been Head of Talent ID at the Warrington Wolves as well as a scout at the Wigan Warriors.

The Head of Academy Recruitment and Operations at Leeds Rhinos, Simon Bell, explained how the new role will work.

“We have never had a scout working in the North West before, but the fact that someone of Peter’s calibre was available it presented a great opportunity for us,” said Bell.

“Peter has a proven track record in discovering some of the most promising players in the game and I don’t think there is anyone better for the job. He will add a lot of value, he has loads of knowledge, experience and contacts in the North West.”

Peter, who is also the Grandfather of current England Rugby Union international Owen Farrell, comes with a vast support network and endorsement.

“Peter is held in very high regard by a lot of people and has lots of contacts in the community game and he can open a lot of doors that we may not be able to do,” added Bell.

“Having someone who is based in the North West, with knowledge of the clubs is essential and we are delighted that he has agreed to join the Rhinos.”

Bell says the appointment is a great development for their Academy but feels the player identification process can go even further, looking at potential athletes from other sports and from different areas of the country.

“Peter will cover the North West but there are other areas of the country and other sports which we can look at,” explained Bell.

“So there is always potential if a player has the talent to play first team for the Leeds Rhinos to get on our Pathway.

“There are so many talented athletes across the country and it is only right that we expand our search for the next generation of players to beyond just the heartlands of the game.”