I’m ready to take next step

Mar 6 2008 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

THOMAS HEMINGWAY is hoping a rapid return to fitness will give him more chance to make an impact in Super League XIII.

The 21-year-old had expected to be sidelined for another month following surgery to both shoulders.

But the goalkicking half-back has already got two Reserve games under his belt.

And having come through the contests unscathed – and earning widespread praise for his performances in the process – he is hoping he doesn’t have to wait too long before he gets another top-flight chance.

“I knew I would need the surgery at some stage, and having it over the winter seemed the best time,” he said.

“We’ve got great half-backs at the club, and I was fully aware I wouldn’t be playing Super League at the start of the season. It was far better for me to be fit mid-season when Jon (Sharp) may need me.

“It wasn’t a difficult decision to make, and I’m already really pleased I had it when I did.

“To be honest, I didn’t expect to be back so soon, but Greg Brown thought differently.

“He’s fantastic at the rehab work, and having done such a great job helping Kev Brown and Shane Elford recover from their shoulder operations, I suppose I should have known better!

“But I still found getting back onto the field a massive step. The shoulders did feel good, but I always knew the acid test would come when I became involved in the physical contact again.

“Fortunately, the first few tackles in my first game against Castleford went really well and my confidence is now sky high.

“Before the surgery, I knew every tackles was going to hurt.

“Now it doesn’t, and I think all my games has benefited from that as a result. I would certainly like to think so.

“And I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the chance to play at hooker.

“It’s a massive role to play. You’ve got to lead the forwards around and make a lot more tackles.

“It is very tough, but the fact I’ve managed to come through it unscathed is a great feeling.

“The next step is now obviously to keep playing well and do enough to prove to Jon I’m ready to have a go back in Super League.

“I know it’s going to be very tough, particularly as the boys are starting to find some real form again.

“But I intend to keep pushing and pushing.

“Having just signed a new contract, I still believe this could be a big year for me in Super League.

“And whether that’s at half-back or hooker, I’d be happy.”