Leeds swoop for rising star from League 1
Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix
Super League giants Leeds have signed hot prospect Leon Ruan on a three-year contract from League 1 side Doncaster.
The 19-year-old back-rower has been training with the Rhinos first team this season after impressing head coach Rohan Smith with his performances for Doncaster.
Ruan, who came through the ranks at Wakefield, has scored six tries in 20 appearances for Doncaster this season.
Commenting on the signing Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Rohan Smith said, “Leon is a powerful edge back-rower with a great attitude to learn and improve.
“He has had a strong season in League 1 that we have tracked closely for months. Leon has transitioned well into our squad in recent weeks, alongside his Doncaster training. We wish Doncaster all the best with their bid towards promotion.”
League 1 Leon Ruan on joining Leeds
He said: “It has been an unreal experience so far, training with the Rhinos and getting to know them. It has been a bonus to be in that environment and I can’t wait to get started properly.
“I was part of the group at the Grand Final the other week and to get a taste of an occasion like that was brilliant. To get to a Grand Final and be part of it is what we all play rugby for. That experience has certainly encouraged my appetite. I want to help the team get there again in the years to come.
“Doncaster have been a massive part of my career to get where I am and have the chance to sign at Leeds. The coaches, staff and players have helped me and pushed me to find out about myself physically and mentally, without them I wouldn’t be where I am now.
“My plan was always to try and get a shot at Super League. I wanted to get game time and the experience against men which Doncaster offered me. I’ve always backed my potential and it has been a journey to get to where I want to be. I am looking forward to a big off season, so I can hit the ground running, grow physically and settle into the squad.”
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