England Academy star signs on at Leeds

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that England Academy international Mikolaj Oledzki has inked a new five-year deal at the club.

The Poland-born 17-year-old is in his first year at the Rhinos Academy, but has shown some fine form in his displays for Leeds Under-19s this year.

Born in Gdansk, Oledzki began playing rugby league at East Leeds amateur club, and joined the Rhinos from Hunslet Warriors.

Also a gymnast, Oledzki has competed for his homeland of Poland as a diver for four years. He only started playing rugby league four years ago, after persuading his mother to let him try it.

“It is incredible to have agreed a new contract with the club and a massive boost before we head down to Australia with the England Academy squad,” Oledzki said.

“I have only been playing for four years and things have moved very quickly this year especially by training and playing with the Under 19s and being around the first team players as well.

“I am overwhelmed what I have achieved so far and hopefully I can keep building on that.
 
“Growing up I started off doing swimming and diving and never thought I would end of playing rugby.

“The first time I saw rugby league, I fell in love with the game and when I eventually persuaded my parents to let me play I knew it was the sport for me.”

Leeds’ head of youth development Simon Bell has been impressed with young Pole’s attitude to improving.

“Mikolaj has impressed everyone this season with his work ethic and determination to improve in every training session and game,” he said.

“He thoroughly deserves his spot in the England Academy squad and this new contract with the club. If he continues to work hard and progress at the same rate, he certainly has a bright future in front of him.”