Leeds Rhinos’ new signing Ethan Clark-Wood has told fans what they can expect from him for the 2025 Super League season whilst also explaining the influence of Brad Arthur in his signing.
Clark-Wood has already arrived in England with the centre possibly in contention to make his debut on Saturday when Leeds takes on Wakefield Trinity at Headingley.
The Rhinos had been full on their quota and cap but since the season-ending injury to NRL recruit Maika Sivo came before he played a competitive fixture, he does not count on the cap. RFL dispensation on the quota spot also factored in to allow Leeds to sign Clark-Wood.
He is a product of Penrith Panthers’ well-established junior system and has represented for both St George Illawarra Dragons and Sydney Roosters but hasn’t made a competitive NRL appearance.
During the off-season, he trained with Gold Coast Titans and he’s explained how that has helped him stay ready to be able to take an opportunity like this one with Leeds Rhinos.
Speaking on the Leeds Rhinos YouTube channel, he said: “Training with NRL squads, everybody is good but the thing that splits the difference is how good you are mentally and being able to stay in the game and put up with fatigue so training with top lads has helped me a lot.”
Leeds Rhinos signing tells fans what to expect with Brad Arthur admission made
Ahead of the new Betfred Super League season kicking off this weekend, Leeds Rhinos have bolstered their squad with the signing of 24-year-old Australian centre Ethan Clark-Wood.
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) February 10, 2025
The 24-year-old gives Brad Arthur plenty of options in the back line with his addition potentially seeing co-captain Ash Handley move back onto the wing, a position that Clark-Wood has explained he likes to get into when discussing what fans can expect.
“From my base style of play, I work hard,” he explained.
“What you see is what you get. If I muck up, I’m not just going to go into my shell, I’m going to keep working hard for the team and the lads.
“Also, I’ve got a bit of speed down the outside as well. I love getting onto the wing from that centre position with a bit of footwork but working hard is my biggest thing.”
Conversations with Clark-Wood moved very quickly with the first conversation ‘last Tuesday’ according to the centre in his signing statement and he’s admitted that the speed of the move has helped a lot.
He said: “I think if I had time to think about it then it would have hit home a bit more but because it’s such a short turnaround I’m ready to just get into it.”
One of the key factors in his decision to move was Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur with his NRL experience being a “good pull” for Leeds’ latest recruit.
Clark-Wood admitted: “Growing up and watching footy seeing Brad Arthur coaching Parra, they’ve always been consistent and making top eight and the Grand Final so it was a good pull to come over.”
Whilst he is still settling in, there is a chance he could play on Saturday when Leeds welcome Wakefield to Headingley and whether he is on the field or not, Clark-Wood can’t wait to feel that famous Headingley atmosphere.
He said: “Hopefully, I do get to run out there but even if I don’t, being around the lads will be good because I’ve seen on TV the atmosphere and that’s the biggest thing I’m looking forward to.”
