Normington raring to go for Hunslet Hawks

AN HORRIFIC facial injury has not ended former Leeds Rhinos prospect Jake Normington's hopes of making a name of himself in the professional game.

Normington, who is back at Hunslet Hawks for a second spell and a fourth attempt to establish himself in the paid ranks, could be a vital component in the south Leeds club’s bid for a quick return to the Kingstone Press Championship.

After being released by Rhinos when he became over-age for the academy, Normington scored eight tries in 12 appearances for Keighley Cougars during the 2011 campaign.

He moved briefly to Hawks in 2013 and returned there three months ago as coach Barry Eaton began rebuilding following relegation to National One.

“Baz gave me a call and said ‘do you fancy another crack’? and I thought why not,” said Normington, who has continued to play for his community club East Leeds during his spells out of the professional system.

“I only played two games when I was here before, then I got injured. We were playing against Leigh at South Leeds Stadium and I fractured my face in four places.

“It was a bad injury to come back from and I think after that I was a bit cautious. It was my first really serious injury and it took me a while to get back into it and get my confidence back, then as soon as Baz called I was injured again!