Hull FC have confirmed the signing of Luke Gale.
The experienced half back joins the club on an initial one-year deal from Leeds Rhinos, who he captained to Challenge Cup success in 2020.
One of Super League’s stand out half backs over the last decade, Gale has amassed over 320 career appearances, scoring 115 tries and kicking 731 goals, representing Harlequins, Bradford, Castleford and Leeds.
The Airlie Birds have captured the services of one of the competition’s most recognisable stars, becoming the fourth name to join FC’s ranks ahead of the new season alongside Fijian internationals Kane Evans and Joe Lovodua, and England Knights winger Darnell McIntosh.
The England international will line-up alongside 2021 Man of Steel nominee Jake Connor and former New South Wales stand-off Josh Reynolds in a talented spine, amongst others.
Speaking about his move to the club, Gale couldn’t hide his excitement.
“First and foremost, it’s a massive club with lots of ambition and that was a key attractive factor for me,” Gale told hullfc.com
“It’s a squad that you would consider to be a title-challenging one with plenty of depth for 2022, so I’m massively excited to be joining the club.
“I spoke with Brett [Hodgson] at length last night and he discussed what he expected from me. I was really impressed with what I heard and it excited me even more.
“Throughout the Super League era, I have been on the receiving end of this Hull side several times – I just think it’s a really exciting squad to be a part of.
“I think it’s a great fit for me as a player, too. With Jake Connor at fullback, that suits me as a player and the strength we have in other areas across the pitch I feel will compliment me hugely, as well.
“It’s a perfect fit for me. I can’t wait to meet the lads and crack on with pre-season training.”
Gale will bring invaluable leadership to the team on and off the field, having captained Leeds Rhinos as well as Castleford Tigers from 2016, the year he also went on to make his England debut and retain the Albert Goldthorpe Medal.
The following season he helped the Tigers to the League Leaders Shield and the Betfred Super League Grand Final, kicking a memorable last-gasp drop goal in the semi-final against St Helens.
The 33-year-old was also named Steve Prescott MBE Super League Man of Steel that season, as well as representing England at the Rugby League World Cup.
He returned to hometown club Leeds Rhinos for the 2020 campaign, captaining the club to Challenge Cup success, completing victory with another match winning drop goal at Wembley.
Gale’s calibre as an on-field general and an off-field leader has been a major draw for Hull FC head coach Brett Hodgson.
He said: “Luke is a really high-quality addition for us and his arrival will be significant in changing the dynamic of our team as we continue to evolve and shape our squad for 2022.
“The impact Luke will bring not only adds immediate strength to our squad, but also provides our younger halves with priceless education to help them continue their development and benefit the club for the long term future.”
