Josh Walters has signed a new three-year contract with Leeds Rhinos. The 19-year-old has only been a rugby league player for a year, after converting from rugby union.
Although originally from Guidlford in Surrey, Walters grew up in Northallerton in Yorkshire. Currently studying for a degree in Sports Marketing at Leeds Metropolitan University, he has four Leeds appearances to his name, and two tries.
“It is fantastic to have agreed a new long term contract with the club,” said Walters.
“This was always going to be a big season for me with it being my final year in the Under 19s and it is pleasing to have secured a new contract for the next few years.
“It was always a goal for me when I came over from Leeds Carnegie to earn a full time contract but I cannot believe how well things have worked out for me.
“I think my run in the team has certainly helped the club decide on my future. Brian McDermott spoke to me after my debut against Leigh and told me what he liked in my game and I have tried to stick to those areas in my performances since then.”
Walters believes he has already improved vastly in his short time with the first time, and has learned to cope with the expectations that come from wearing a Leeds jersey.
“I don’t think it gets any easier with the more games you get under your belt but you do feel more settled in your surroundings and I would say I am mentally more comfortable now running out in front of 15,000 people for a game,” he added.
“I still get nervous but having had a taste of the action, it only makes you want it even more.”
As for swapping codes, Walters feels that young players can reach the first team more quickly in the faster 13-man code.
“I heard a comment from Joel Tomkins saying that he thought he was a better league player than a union one and I can definitely see his point of view there,” added Walters.
“My reason for switching to the Rhinos was because I felt I was more suited to league and it was my best opportunity to become a professional rugby player.
“Whether other young rugby union players will follow my example, I am not sure.
“Young players do get an opportunity to play in the first team at a younger age in league because of the nature of both games but I would hope anyone who does switch does it because they love playing rugby league and not just because they might be able to play first team rugby earlier in their career.”
Article source: http://www.fanatix.com/news/munster-v-perpignan-heineken-cup-streaming-rugby-union-preview/168950/
Union convert commits to Leeds
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