Huddersfield Rugby Union Club have got more key positions nailed down for next season by signing five more influential players.

Half-backs Joel Hinchliffe and Dan Jeffrey have agreed terms for 2016-17 in National III North, while also putting pen to paper are loose head prop Adam Tamanis, centre Tom Kanouras and forward Nick Rhodes.

Head coach Gareth Lewis, who is in talks with other younger members of the squad, is pleased the quintet have committed to stay for a bid to win back immediate promotion.

“Joel Hinchliffe is very much the heartbeat of the club,” said Lewis, preparing his side for their final National II North match of the season at South Leicester.

“I have seen him develop as a player since my Halifax days into a very good half back and an outstanding leader.

“He is comfortable at both 9 and 10, and is a very reliable goal kicker. His commitment to training on the field is second to none and just to see him down on a Sunday morning presenting medals to the youngsters at the mini age grade festival is the mark of the man.

“Joel brings experience to a young side, which will definitely be required next season.”

Dan Jeffrey will again be pulling on the white, claret and gold shirt and Lewis added: “DJ is the model professional in the way he approaches his rugby and is the benchmark for all to follow in terms of strength and conditioning.

Huddersfield RFU half back Dan Jeffrey

“His recent performance against Caldy showed the class he has, but he must do it on a more consistent basis next season.”

Lewis expects Adam Tamanis to make a big impact in National III.

“Despite our disappointing season, Adam is back enjoying his rugby again and, at just 22 years of age, he has a very bright future,” said the coach.

“In many ways he had a lot to take on at a young age, being in a fully-professional environment at Doncaster Knights and then suffering a potential career threatening neck injury.

“However, he has worked hard on his rehab, been patient to get a chance and really stepped up to the plate through January and February in terms of performance.

“With a tough pre-season in the bag, I’m expecting big things from Adam next season.”

Already back at Lockwood Park next season are county player Austen Thompson, Gavin Rhodes, Adam Malthouse, Declan Thompson, Henry Ward, Ben Morrill, Elliot Knight, Ben Hoyle and skipper Alex Battye.

Lewis is delighted Nick Rhodes and Kanouras will be joining the squad.

Huddersfield RU coach Gareth Lewis.

“Nick has come of age this season in terms of the line-out and leadership and he has the developed his ability to pick some great lines in attack,” explained Lewis.

“Although not a local lad, he sees this as his hometown club since joining us from the University.

“He is ultra-committed and this is the culture we are creating. We want players who are prepared to dedicate themselves to the cause and buy into the Huddersfield RUFC ethos.

“Tom Kanouras has arguably been the find of the season since joining us from Bradford and Bingley.

“He is a very tidy footballer, has great footwork and is a real character within the squad.

“By his own admission he needs a big pre-season and I’m sure he will be raring to go for the new season.”