As Hull FC prepare for the 2024 season another one of their players has taken to the 15 man code.
Legendary figure Jamie Shaul was the first heading to Hull FC RUFC alongside former teammate Bureta Faraimo.
Shaul was a two time Challenge Cup winner with the Black and Whites against Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors.
Now youngster Manoa Wacokecoke has played for Hull Ionians against Fylde sadly suffering defeat.
It remains to be seen if he will remain in rugby union or if he will have a rugby league club in 2024.
As for his former club the Black and Whites, Tony Smith’s era is well and truly about to begin.
“The fans have been remarkable, really. The loyalty that they have shown during my time here has really impressed me,” he said on the club’s website.
“They’re really knowledgeable on the game and they understand what a good effort looks like. They’re some of the best in the country for appreciating effort and application from the players.
“Certainly as a coach, I like to have flair and style about our approach, but the first two ingredients need to be hard work and commitment to the badge and to each other.
“So it’s appreciated that our fans understand that. And it’s appreciated that so many fans stick with us during the tough spells. I know they’ve been through some tough years. Hopefully at some stage soon, we will be able to reward them for their incredibly loyal support.”
Hull FC’s first-team squad are now five weeks into their pre-season campaign, putting the foundations in place for 2024.
As well as many familiar faces, there are also some new ones around the place, including the likes of Franklin Pele, Jack Walker and Jayden Okunbor to name a few.
Not only that, but Smith’s coaching staff has also been freshened up. And it has all helped create a buzz around the camp.
“There’s a real enthusiasm there and there seems to be a freshness around the place,” he said.
“We have some new personnel both on and off the field that has freshened us up in all areas. That was needed and it was due.
“And I think it’s energised the guys who’ve been at the club for a little longer. It’s certainly created a new buzz around the place, which has made the first few weeks of pre-season so far very enjoyable.
“It’s tough work for the players but they have approached everything put in front of them with the right attitude.”
Of the new recruits, the likes of Franklin Pele, Jayden Okunbor and Jack Ashworth stand out through their size and presence.
All of them will be looking to gain some healthy minutes in pre-season friendlies ahead of the Round One clash with Hull KR in just over two months.
“I’m pleased with the physique of some of our new recruits in the middle. They look big and in good shape,” Smith said.
“We also still have another one of our big recruits, Herman Ese’ese, yet to arrive. He’ll be with us pretty soon.
“Not only size, but we’ve also added some more youthfulness to our side. Hopefully it all bodes well for the season ahead.”
