HOOKER Sam Hallas has made the short move from Bradford Bulls to Betfred League One side Hunslet.

The 26-year-old has agreed a one-year deal with the Parksiders, who have beaten off challenges from several other clubs, including a couple of Championship outfits.

His departure has brought an end to his second spell at the Odsal side, and he moves on to South Leeds after making 66 appearances for the club.

Speaking to his new club Hunslet about the move, he said: “I’d been planning to join a club in Australia, only for it to fall through at the eleventh hour. Because of that I was looking for a club in this country and had a few offers, including a couple from Championship outfits. But the pull of Hunslet, not only because of the club’s ambitions under head coach Alan Kilshaw but for compelling family reasons, made the decision to sign for the Parksiders an easy one.”

The Hallas family has a long tradition of supporting Hunslet and Sam’s dad, Steve, is particularly keen. He was, in fact, on the playing staff back when the legendary Geoff Gunney was coach. And, more recently, Sam’s cousin Graeme played for, and subsequently coached, Hunslet Hawks.

Sam, who is a former England Academy captain, confirmed: “When Hunslet made their offer I had no hesitation in putting pen to paper, not only for me but also for my dad. He was as much the driving force in my decision as I was, he’s absolutely thrilled, and I now aim to make him even prouder by helping us secure promotion from Betfred League One.

“We’ve a good squad here – that’s yet another reason for me signing up – and I’m confident that I can bring a great deal to the cause. I’ve over 100 Championship games under my belt, with Bradford Bulls, and I know what it takes to earn promotion from League One, having done just that at Bradford.”