Liam Hine sticks with Leeds Knights in bid to take his game to the next level

MOVING ON UP: Liam Hine believes Leeds is where his game can best develop as he returns for a second season. Picture: Kev Bland/Knights Media.

placeholder image — MOVING ON UP: Liam Hine believes Leeds is where his game can best develop as he returns for a second season. Picture: Kev Bland/Knights Media.

LIKE a number of young players at Leeds Knights last season, Liam Hine was handed an opportunity to step up and prove himself.

And like his fellow teenagers, the left-handed defenceman clearly made the best of his chance to test himself at NIHL National level, having secured himself a return for the 2026-27 campaign on a two-way deal.

Hine, who turns 18 on Saturday, offered depth to Ryan Aldridge’s team in 2025-26 when it was needed most.

At times later on in the season he may have found ice time limited but he remained an integral part of the roster - something Aldridge is keen to ensure continues over the next 12 months.

BRIGHT FUTURE: Defenceman Liam Hine is back with Leeds Knights on a two-way deal. Picture: Kev Bland/Knights Media.

Having come through the Manchester Storm Academy, in the summer of 2024 Hine switched to Bradford Bulldogs where he continued his junior career, also beginning his senior career at Little Horton Lane, although most of his ice time that season came with hometown team, Blackburn Hawks in North One.

Last season saw him strike a two-way deal between the Hawks and Knights before he made the move wholesale across the Pennines to Leeds in January.

He gained valuable ice time with both Leeds Knights 2 and the organisation’s Under-19 National team, while still being a vital component of Aldridge’s roster.

“It’s great having Liam back with us again,” said Aldridge. “Last year was a transition year for him and I think he adapted well to the change and the level.

“We’re looking for another big push with his development this season and he is already working hard this off-season to give himself every chance with that.

“He has a good skill set and is a great skater.”

Hine, who has represented Great Britain at both Under-18 and Under-16 level and made 39 league, Cup and play-off appearances for the Knights last season, is keen to realise his potential at Elland Road.

“I’m really glad to be back in Leeds for another season,” said the youngster. “The desire to develop young players here is second to none and I feel like this is the right place for me to develop as a player and progress my game to the next level.”