Leeds Rhinos have completed the signing of teenager Leon Ruan from Doncaster on a three-year deal. The 19-year-old has earned a deal after impressing during a successful trial period with the club.
A back-rower, Ruan scored six tries in 20 appearances this year as the Dons reached the play-off final. His performances saw him earn an opportunity at Headingley, where he quickly impressed Rohan Smith and the rest of the coaching staff.
He becomes the club's latest lower-league addition, following on from the arrival of Batley Bulldogs fullback Luke Hooley. Leigh's Luis Roberts is also expected to join the club. Ruan started in the Wakefield academy system before making his way to Doncaster to earn first-grade experience.
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“Leon is a powerful edge backrower with a great attitude to learn and improve," head coach Rohan Smith said. "He has had a strong season in League 1 that we have tracked closely for months. Leon has transitioned well into our squad in recent weeks, alongside his Doncaster training..
Ruan added: “It has been an unreal experience so far, training with the Rhinos and getting to know them, it has been a bonus to be in that environment and I can’t wait to get started properly. I was part of the group at the Grand Final the other week and to get a taste of an occasion like that was brilliant.
"To get to a Grand Final and be part of it is what we all play rugby for. That experience has certainly encouraged my appetite and I want to help the team get there again in the years to come. Doncaster have been a massive part of my career to get where I am and have the chance to sign at Leeds. The coaches, staff and players have helped me and pushed me to find out about myself physically and mentally, without them I wouldn’t be where I am now.
“My plan was always to try and get a shot at Super League. I wanted to get game time and the experience against men which Doncaster offered me. I have always backed my potential and it has been a journey to get to where I want to be. I am looking forward to a big off season, so I can hit the ground running, grow physically and settle into the squad."
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