Hunslet sign Hawksworth as nine players leave the club

Hunslet have continued their re-building for 2019 with the signing of York prop Dan Hawksworth.

Hawsworth, 25, has signed a one-year deal and becomes the club’s second new signing for next year following the capture of Richard Moore from Featherstone.

Coach Gary Thornton said: “Dan joins us following a successful season with York City Knights, where he helped them gain promotion to the Championship.

“He is a big, athletic front rower, who will add size and power to our pack.

“He runs hard and tackles aggressively and has a terrific work ethic.

“He has been under the radar a little, spending time at Sheffield as a youngster, but is now starting to fulfil his potential and developed well last year.

“He brings a high level of enthusiasm and desire to succeed, and we are delighted to have captured his signature, and look forward to him becoming an integral part of our squad.”

Hawksworth came through the academy at Sheffield and caught the eye of York coach James Ford while playing for Hemel Stags.

He made 13 appearances for the Knights, scoring three tries, as they won the League 1 title.

After a disappointing end to the season, Hunslet have released nine players – Liam Mackay, Daley Williams, Jack Coventry, Jack Walton, Gavin Duffy, Will Cooke, Matt Nicholson, Danny Halmshaw and Brad Forster.