School’s out perpetually for rising Leeds Rhinos star Morgan Gannon, however the 19-year-old is eager to proceed studying as he prepares to play a pivotal position in his aspect’s new Betfred Super League season that kicks off on Thursday.
Gannon’s stirring progress by way of the Rhinos’ ranks went hand-in-hand with homework and revision classes till he wrapped up his A ranges with two As and a B final summer season.
Now he has swapped the textbooks for the tutoring of head coach Rohan Smith, who has more and more deployed the adaptable Gannon in a half-back position to be able to take a look at his potential for a everlasting transition additional down the road.
Gannon instructed the PA information company: “This has been my first full pre-season without college and without having to turn up for training and still have homework on my mind.
“It’s tough to train and go to college at the same time, but it’s more about the mental benefit of being able to switch off after a tough session, or focus full-time on new ideas and perspectives.”
The half-back position could also be one which Gannon final adopted within the under-13s together with his novice membership Siddal, however Smith clearly sees potential there, having drafted him into the place for durations of various his aspect’s pre-season video games.
And whereas Gannon, who made his Rhinos debut as a 17-year-old in 2021, has no particular ambitions of changing from his common place within the again row, he’s relishing the prospect to make a much bigger impression in a revitalised Rhinos aspect this season.
“It’s a different challenge, with the attacking mindset of being involved in every play and constantly thinking about the next one, so it’s been good for the concentration levels,” added Gannon.
“I think it’s good for my development, but I’ve only played a few games there and I think ultimately I will get to the point where the decision is made for me, that I either stick with it or stay in the back row.”
Gannon is about to characteristic in a doubtlessly pivotal Super League opener on Thursday when the Rhinos journey to Warrington, one other aspect smarting from an unsatisfactory 2022 marketing campaign.
While the Rhinos have been revitalised below Smith and finally went all the way in which to the Grand Final, Daryl Powell’s Wolves flopped to second backside of the ultimate desk, however have impressively overhauled their pack.
The Rhinos have saved a comparatively low profile within the shut season, with Smith satisfied of his strategies, and Gannon is wanting ahead to the chance for his aspect to consign final season’s dismal begin to the historical past books.
“We’re really feeling the benefit of our first full pre-season under Rohan,” added Gannon. “We’ve got a really strong group and a lot of young kids coming through who are really pushing everyone along.
“In both the seasons I’ve been involved with so far we haven’t made the best start, so we’re really keen to get out there and push strong through those first couple of rounds.”