Leeds Rhinos make statement in handing forward long-term contract

Leeds Rhinos and England front rower Mikolaj Oledzki has committed his future to Leeds Rhinos and the Super League competition after agreeing a new contract with the club that will keep the 23-year-old at Headingley until at least the end of the 2025 season. 

Oledzki made his England debut for Shaun Wane’s side in the Autumn victory in France. He has made 82 appearances for the Rhinos since making his debut in 2017 and was a Challenge Cup winner for the Rhinos in 2020.

Commenting on his new contract, the front rower said, “I am really happy to have got the deal over the line however the decision was pretty easy for me. For the last few years, I’ve really enjoyed going through the process we have been through as our squad has transitioned.  We have signed a lot of great players to compliment the young lads coming through and I’ve really enjoyed being part of that building process. I’ve been here since I was a junior. I’ve really enjoyed my time and am really excited about what the next four years will bring.

“I am fortunate to play alongside some quality players in the middle of the team and they help me develop my game. That was a factor in my decision to remain at the Rhinos because playing alongside these lads for the last few years has helped me develop my game massively.

“It was an important decision for me and my family as well. We love living in and around Leeds, it’s a great city, a great, family-friendly club. My little one loves everything about Leeds: she loves coming here to the stadium and she loves Ronnie. That was another factor as I can’t be selfish, it has to be a decision that we make together,” added Oledzki.

The Gdansk-born star says he is excited about a massive year in 2022 that he hopes will bring success for club and country. He added, “This next year is massive for us. We have a great team going forward. We have signed some top class players and everyone is hungry for success. You can tell everyone really wants to get back to the top and win some trophies. It will be an exciting year and also with the World Cup at the end of the year, a lot of players will want to impress and put their hand up for selection. We have an exciting year ahead. It should be a very good competition.”

Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Richard Agar added, “Mik thoroughly deserves this new contract. As a club, we have a policy of rewarding success and Mik’s form over the last two years certainly warrants that. He has become one of the leading forwards in Super League, earning a place in the England side and is at the core of our senior players and performers here at the Rhinos on a consistent basis which has secured his status in the game.”