Carrying on the Family Legacy: Rugby League’s Next Generation
In the world of rugby league, it’s not uncommon to see sons following in their fathers’ footsteps, carrying on the family legacy on the pitch. Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, St Helens, and other clubs are home to a number of young talents aiming to emulate the success of their famous fathers.
Joe Diskin, the son of Leeds legend Matt Diskin, has recently made the step up from the Rhinos’ scholarship to their academy program. Similarly, Harry Higham, the son of ex-Wigan and Warrington stalwart Micky Higham, is currently plying his trade in the Warriors’ reserves, having previously played for Salford.
At Leeds, Dacx Jones-Buchanan, the son of four-time Super League champion Jamie, is part of the club’s scholarship setup, while Lukas Mason, whose father Keith played over 200 Super League games, has progressed into Wigan’s academy.
Tyler Mills, the son of Widnes and Wales internationals David and Jim Mills, has joined the scholarship program at reigning champions St Helens. Castleford Tigers have welcomed Sonny Newlove, the son of England and Great Britain star Paul Newlove, into their academy.
Wigan have also welcomed a familiar name in George O’Loughlin, the son of the Warriors’ assistant coach and club legend Sean O’Loughlin. Hunslet’s Iwan Orr, whose father Danny has over 370 Super League appearances, has made his debut for the League 1 side.
The Saints’ scholarship program has drawn in Ollie Roby, the son of the club’s all-time appearance record holder James Roby, and Oliver Stankevitch, whose father John made over 130 appearances for the Red V.
Finally, Leeds Rhinos have Kai Taylor-Smith, the son of eight-time England international Lee Smith, in their academy setup, continuing the family’s legacy at Headingley.
These players, with their famous surnames, will be hoping to follow in their fathers’ footsteps and make a lasting impact in the world of rugby league.
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