Leeds Rhinos have given a three-year contract to part-time player Jimmy Kein-horst from Otley .

The 22-year-old centre, a Germany international who is starting his third year of a sports science degree at Leeds Metropolitan Univer-sity, played in the Challenge Cup final last month in only his fourth appearance for the Rhinos and made his first start in last Friday’s Super League win over Salford.

“I am really happy to have signed a long-term contract with the club,” said Keinhorst, who has also played for Otley Rugby Union Club.

“Studying at Leeds Met has been great for me and I definitely would not have got the chances I have had in rugby league without the close ties between the university and the Rhinos.

“Paul Fletcher, our coach at Leeds Met, recommended me to the Rhinos and they signed me from there so it has all happened very quickly.

“I am going into my final year now and I know it is going to be tough but it is something the Rhinos are fully supportive of.

“I am excited about the opportunities I have at the Rhinos but I also want to finish with a strong degree after three years hard work so it will be a busy time.”

Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: “Jimmy has impressed everyone at the club this season with his performances for the Under-20s and the first team and he deserves this new deal.

“For a 22-year-old to have played at Wembley in his fourth senior appearance is an incredible achievement and something that will stand him in good stead for years to come.

“Jimmy is learning all the time and, no doubt, there will be times when things are not progressing at the current rate but we have a track record of supporting our young people through those tougher times and allowing them to fulfil their potential.”

Keinhorst is one of four rugby-playing brothers, along with Kristian, Nick and Marcus.

The quartet, who have all played for Old Otliensians Rugby Union Club, were part of the Germany rugby league team that won the European Shield against Norway and Malta last season.

Meanwhile, Rhinos have also confirmed that England international Ryan Bailey is in contract for the 2013 Super League season.

Chief executive Gary Hetherington said “Ryan is in contract for next season. His original deal was for three seasons running until next season.

“There has been some confusion about the situation, so hopefully this clears that up although Ryan and ourselves were aware of the situation.”