Sam Wood has earned a full-time Giants Super League contract until the end of the season.
The 18-year-old rising star made his top-flight debut as a part-time player at home to Wigan Warriors last month and also featured against Widnes Vikings at the John Smith’s Stadium a week later.
Former Dewsbury Celtic junior Wood played at centre on both occasions, but is equally at home as a back-row forward or stand-off.
And Giants chief Paul Anderson knows the talented teenager has the potential to be a major Super League hit.
“Sam’s earned this contract because of the sacrifices he’s been prepared to make,” said Anderson.
“He’s been training with the full-time squad since Christmas off his own back. He was with the Under 19s and was doing little during the day, so asked if he could join us.
“He’s impressed everyone with his commitment and his attitude, and he showed with his Super League performances how much potential he possesses, even if those games probably came a bit too soon.
“But I know Sam will benefit from that. He’s a very smart scholar of the game and picks things up very quickly, so learning from those experiences will have been no problem for him.
“On top of that, he’s also a skilful player with a lot of versatility.
“Last weekend, he started for the Under 19s at London Broncos at centre. Due to an injury, he had to move to stand-off and immediately came up with a hat trick!
“Next week, he might have to play in the back-row, but would probably respond by scoring three more tries, he’s that sort of player.”
