Nathan Mason has been rewarded for a strong Super League season with a new Giants contract.
The 22-year-old prop has this year emerged as a genuine top-flight performer and has signed a new deal which will keep him at the John Smith’s Stadium until the end of the 2018 campaign.
The 6ft 4in, 17-stone Oldham-born forward made his Super League debut at Bradford Bulls three years ago.
And after making 15 appearances in Super League XXI and improving with every game he plays, the Giants have moved quickly to tie him down for another two years.
“Nathan deserves a chance here to continue his development,” said head coach Paul Anderson, who is expected to hand Mason his 16th 2016 appearance at Widnes Vikings on Sunday.
“He is a good example for the younger lads to look up to as he’s the proof that there is a genuine development path at our club into the Super League team. He has come through our systems and this year really pushed his nose into consideration for the top side.
“He’s a naturally big man and will probably get bigger with age and through the continued benefit of training alongside the proper nutrition programme. Game-wise, he is like many aspiring players of his age in that he needs to play regularly against good opposition.”
And Mason is delighted his staying around for at least another two seasons.
“I’m obviously happy to be staying at the club and I hope I can establish myself as a regular in the first team,” he said.
“I have always been at Huddersfield since signing professionally and, as well as Paul as head coach, who played my position, I’m lucky our senior props, Eorl Crabtree, Sam Rapira and Craig Huby, have helped and encouraged me, especially this year when I’ve played far more first grade than before.
“I know we still have lots to do as a team this year to get where we want to be, but I’m glad I’ve been playing and hope that continues and our form keeps on getting better.
“I have some security now, as it is worrying when you are out of contract at the end of the year and not knowing what the future is, so I’m really glad this deal is done and has been announced.”
