Beaumont hails Hock’s uncompromising toughness

Leigh Centurions owner Derek Beaumont has praised Gareth Hock‘s aggressive qualities, after the veteran forward signed a contract extension at the club.

Hock, 32, will now stay at the club until the end of the 2018 season, and Beaumont is delighted that the former Great Britain forward is part of his club’s long-term future.

“Gaz is a top quality, proven player who plays the game hard,” said Beaumont.

“He is tough, aggressive and uncompromising and epitomises what the game is all about.

“I genuinely do not get the label Gaz has previously been given as he has not been an ounce of trouble and has only been good for the squad.

“Paul Rowley [Leigh coach] enjoys coaching him and he enjoys being coached and is a leader on and off the field. I put it down to him being happy and sharing my philosophy which is to treat others as you expect to be treated.

“I have no doubt if you mistreat Gaz or get on the wrong side of him he will stand up for what he believes in, but we are a real good group with good morals and a shared vision and goal to be the best we can be individually and collectively.”

Beaumont also believes that Hock is as commited to the goal of glory for Leigh as much as he is himself.

“We want to achieve something special and I sense Gaz wants that as much as me,” he added.

“We had a little chat on the plane home from Lanzarote.

“It was nothing to do with this deal but it will be interesting to read his final chapter based on that, if and when he writes it.

“The public of Leigh have warmed to Gaz and I believe as the seasons go by he will gain even more respect from them.

“People forget just how good Gaz is and I believe this year in particular people will start to realise that and then it will be too late as he has already secured his future with Leigh.”