Rhinos form reserves partnership with Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Rhinos have partnered with Leeds Beckett University in a scheme that will give students a chance to break into the world of professional rugby league.

The partnership will allow leading members of the University’s rugby league team a chance to play for the Rhinos’ reserve side.

Leeds Beckett has long been one of the UK’s leading rugby league universities, producing several professional players throughout Europe’s three top leagues, including England and Great Britain international Alex Walmsley and former Leeds centre Jimmy Keinhorst.

Leeds Rhinos director of rugby Kevin Sinfield said: “Student rugby league is a massive growth area for the sport.

“This partnership shows how players, particularly those who have developed late in the game, can still have a pathway to professional Rugby League.”

Leeds Beckett rugby league head coach Paul Fletcher added: “The partnership will allow players the chance to represent the university and work towards playing in Super League, following in the footsteps of our graduates who have gone on to play at the pinnacle of Rugby League.”