Sinfield proud to emulate Peacock

Leeds legend Kevin Sinfield has had his career acknowledged by being awarded an MBE. He is proud to follow in the footsteps of his club-mate Jamie Peacock.

The 34-year-old is the most successful skipper in the history of the Leeds club, having guided them to six Grand Final victories in the last decade and to three World Club Challenge triumphs.

“It’s really nice to follow in his [Peacock’s] footsteps,” Sinfield said.

“I’d like to dedicate it to all those players I’ve played alongside over many years and coaches I’ve played under and all the people at Leeds really who have played such a huge part in my career.

“If you look back over the last couple of years at the former players who have been honoured, the likes of JP and Steve Prescott and, going back even further, one of my heroes Ellery Hanley, those three have been inspirations to a lot of people and certainly to myself.

“I still feel pretty good and I’m looking forward to the next couple of years and to hopefully bring some more silverware back to the club.

“Fingers crossed I stay fit and healthy. Form is important. I’d love to improve over this next little while. We’ve got some big games coming up.

“The Four Nations is obviously a huge carrot dangling for everybody and I’d love to be part of it again.”

The Rugby Football League also offered their congratulations to Sinfield, who is Super League‘s leading all-time points scorer.

“On behalf of the whole of Rugby League, I would like to congratulate Kevin on receiving the MBE,” said Brian Barwick, the  RFL chairman.

“Kevin has been an outstanding ambassador for the sport throughout his career and a model professional who is a role model to thousands of young players.

“This award is deserved recognition for a very special athlete and a young man who is respected throughout sport.”