Ex-Leeds Rhinos player joins new club: former Hull KR man is Goole Vikings' latest recruit
A former Leeds Rhinos player has become new club Goole Vikings’ latest signing.
Thomas Minns, who began his career in Rhinos’ academy and spent this season with National Conference outfit East Leeds, is the fifth player to agree a contract with the Betfred League One newcomers. The 30-year-old centre, who lives close to Goole, has also played for London Broncos, Featherstone Rovers, Hull KR and Wakefield Trinity.
He stepped down from full-time rugby league to concentrate on a new career in the fire and rescue service, but has been granted permission to take up his latest opportunity. He said: "I’m really excited to be joining Goole Vikings at such an exciting time for the club.
“This is a great opportunity to be part of something special and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and helping the team achieve success next season. From day one when I was approached by James [Clark, strategic advisor] and Scott [Taylor, coach], I was blown away by the professionalism, the ambition and their vision as to how they see the club being built.
“It has really re-ignited my passion for the game. I'm excited about what we can achieve. I’m looking forward to playing a senior role in the group and passing on some of my experience and knowledge to the younger lads and can’t wait to get started in pre-season.”
Taylor said: "Bringing in a player like Tom is another boost for the club. His experience in Super League and the Championship, along with his ability to play both sides of the ball, makes him a great asset for us.
“He is a proven performer and on his day he will be one of the best players in our competition next season. We’ve been really impressed with his attitude and drive; he has a real desire to be part of this project, particularly being a relatively local lad and I’m looking forward to working with him.” Google’s other confirmed signings are Tom Halliday, Ben Hodder, Jamie Shaul and Josh Guzdek.