Ethan O’Neill has confirmed that the chance to play under head coach Brad Arthur was a “big reason” in his move to Leeds Rhinos.
The 26-year-old joined the club this off-season from Leigh Leopards, after an impressive first year in Super League.
Scoring seven tries in 22 appearances, O’Neill’s form had him as a candidate for the Sup, er League Dream Team, though injury at the back end of the year saw his chances fade away.
Now at Leeds, he will be working under one of the most esteemed coaches in the division, and that is something he is relishing now he is at the club.
Speaking exclusively to Serious About Rugby League, O’Neill revealed that Arthur is a coach he wanted to play under, and how his style of management is something that attracted him to the club.
“He was a big reason and I knew that coming here,” the ex-Leigh man explained. “He is going to be real good for me and my career.
He added: “The club culture as well, Leeds is a massive club, the boys here, I feel like everyone around here is going to make me a better player and a better person, but to answer your question he was a big part of me coming here.”
Of course, the back rower worked under Adrian Lam at Leigh, meaning he has now worked under two significantly experienced coaches in the game.
However, there are differences between the two, and Arthur’s way of doing things aligns greatly with the Australians, making for a better fit.
Asked about the differences between a Lam and an Arthur pre-season, he said: “I feel like every pre-season is similar in a way, but it’s just the way the coach coaches and I love the way BA coaches, him and I we’ve got along really well.”
“I feel like I can talk to him about anything, he’s been really good for me and he’s going to be good for my career here at Leeds.”
“I can’t wait to keep picking his brain on every part of the game and for him to help me make me a better player, so I’m excited to keep playing under him.”
O’Neill adapted quickly to life in Blue and Amber, and got his first taste of Headingley action on Boxing Day, as he made his unofficial debut.
Recalling that moment, he revealed he was surprised to see such a wealthy crowd, particularly given the weather.
His second outing in a Leeds jersey saw him feature in Cameron Smith’s testimonial game over Bradford Bulls, where he crossed for a try as part of the side’s 40-10 win.
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Leeds Rhinos recruit discusses back row competition
O’Neill is one of three quality back row options in the Leeds side, and add the talented youngsters coming through at the club in that position, the competition for places is exceptionally strong.
James McDonnell, who will depart the club at the end of the season, and Kallum Watkins, who has been tipped by Arthur to go round again in 2027, are the new arrivals main opposers, and that was shown with the pair receiving starting squad numbers for the season.
The club also have Ben Littlewood and Zak Lloyd in reserve, both of whom will be looking to make their mark across the season.
However, coming in and automatically being first choice is not an expectation of O’Neill’s, he knows he will have to work for his spot in the 13 each week.
He explained: “I just want to come here and play the best footy for Leeds. Obviously I want to earn my place in the starting pack, but if that means coming off the bench to start the season, I’ll do that.”
“I also want to pick the boys’ brains [McDonnell and Watkins], learn off them, so I feel like it’s a good opportunity for me to compete with them and get better as a player.”
