Highly thought of Leeds Rhinos youngster makes surprise switch to Championship club

Sheffield Eagles have been busy with recruitment and retention as they hope to make a serious push for play-off rugby in 2023.

This morning they have announced their latest signing and it is certainly an exciting one.

They’ve signed Leeds Rhinos youngster Joe Hird on a two year deal.

To those unaware of Hird, he has been captaining the Rhinos reserve side this year leading the likes of Super League stars such as Alex Mellor and a Jack Broadbent whisky guiding the next generation of talent at Headingley in the shape of Jack Sinfield, Will Gatus, Jack Smith and Max Simpson.

Many Leeds fans expected Hird to be awarded a senior deal at the club and soon make his debut but the Young forward has been allowed to leave taking up a two year deal with the Eagles from 2023.

On the signing of the young prop, Mark Ashton said: “He has grown up in fabulous setups, such as the one at Leeds and also in the amateur game with Stanningley. 

“We’re excited to see where Joe can go. He is keen to get started and hit the ground running, which is exactly what we want from all of the new signings.”

Discussing his switch to the Eagles and goals in his debut year, Hird said: “I am very happy to be at Sheffield, it’s a great opportunity for myself. 

“I can’t wait to get started. Coming through at Leeds has taught me a lot and it was a great experience. 

“The move to Sheffield came at the right time for me. I was on the lookout for a club and I am very grateful to Mark for signing me.

“I hope to impress and get as much game time as possible.”

Hird is joined by fellow new signing Mekhi Bridgeman-Reaney who follows in the footsteps of his father in joining the Eagles.

He is the son of ex-Eagle Derek Bridgeman. An outside back, he will provide competition for places. He has signed a one year deal with the club.

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— Sheffield Eagles (@SheffieldEagles) October 17, 2022