Leigh Leopards sign ‘outstanding’ in-form winger to new deal: ‘I am made up.’
Leigh Leopards have signed in-form winger Umyla Hanley to a new two-year contract, keeping him at the club until at least the end of 2026.
The 22-year-old is having a breakout season with Adrian Lam’s side, having scored 10 tries in 10 appearances in 2024.
Hanley’s contract was set to expire at the end of the current season, but the Challenge Cup holders moved quickly to extend his stay for another two years.
Hanley said after signing his new contract: “I’m delighted to be returning to Leigh, and I can’t thank the staff and the lads enough.
“This is like my second family, and I’m excited to make more memories with them on the pitch and bring more success to this great club.”
Leigh Leopards manager ‘pleased’ to sign prolific try-scorer Umyla Hanley to new contract.
Hanley rose through the ranks at hometown club Wigan Warriors, where he made 11 first-team appearances before making the short journey across the borough to Leigh for the 2023 season.
The 22-year-old had to wait his turn with the Leopards, but he has seized the opportunity this season.
On Hanley’s new contract, Leigh’s head of rugby, Chris Chester, said: “Umyla has been outstanding this year, and it’s very exciting to have the opportunity to watch his development up close.”
“In his first year at our club in 2023, he found his opportunities limited due to the excellent form of Josh Charnley and Tom Briscoe.
“Umyla returned on the first day of pre-season with a positive attitude and was one of our top trainers throughout the winter. He is now reaping the benefits of all his hard work.
“Umyla is a confident player who is benefiting greatly from a longer run in the side.
“He has great footwork, good hands, strength, athleticism, agility, and elusiveness, and he works hard out of yardage. He’s proven to be an excellent finisher, but his work ethic is also an important aspect of his game.
“Umyla got his chance after Tom Briscoe, who was always present last season, was injured in the second game. He seized the opportunity and delivered some consistent performances.
“It’s very encouraging that Umyla believes his future lies at the Leopards Den.” We have first-rate coaching and backroom staff, and it’s an ideal environment for him to see how far he can progress in the game. He’s already an excellent player, but I believe there is much more to come from him.”
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