Leeds Rhinos’ Australian forward Mitch Garbutt, who won the Challenge Cup, League Leaders’ Shield and Grand Final in his first 14 games in First Utility Super League, has been handed a new four-year contract.
The 26-year-old prop joined the Rhinos in mid-season from Brisbane Broncos initially on a two-and-half-year deal and has now agreed an extension that will keep him at Headingley at least until the end of 2019.
“With how everything has panned out this season, I was delighted to sign a new deal and commit my future to the Rhinos,” Garbutt said. “This is the most I have ever enjoyed my footie and I can’t wait for next season.
“I am looking forward to experiencing the weather this winter during pre-season and I think I will be better for it.
“My family and I have adapted well to life over here. We are aiming to settle down in Leeds and we have been made to feel so welcome, not just by the staff and players at the club but also the fans who have been great as well.”
Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: “It is remarkable how well Mitch has fitted into our culture since he arrived here. He deserves a lot of credit for that because of his attitude and professionalism.
“The prospect of him having a full pre-season with us is exciting given how well he has settled in since he arrived and I am delighted he has committed his future to the club.”
Meanwhile, former Leeds player Ian Kirke has returned to the club as part-time conditioner.
Kirke, 34, made 214 appearances for the Rhinos from 2006-14, winning five Grand Finals and the Challenge Cup in that time, before moving to Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.
He made just four appearances for the Wildcats in 2015 because of injury and has not yet decided whether to bring his playing career to an end.
“I will make a decision in the new year as to whether I will play on next season on a part-time basis but I am really looking forward to the challenge at the Rhinos,” Kirke said.
“Strength and conditioning is something that I have always had an interest in having completed my degree before I joined the Rhinos and have acquired several qualifications since then.”