Hometown hero Michael Lawrence says it’s an “honour and a privilege” to be made club captain at Huddersfield Giants.
The 30-year-old forward is a one-club man who stands for everything that is great about the Giants – and the wider Huddersfield community.
Earlier this year Lawrence became a member of the Rugby Football League’s inclusion board as part of the governing body’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and anti-discrimination.
New Giants head coach Ian Watson quickly recognised the regard in which Lawrence is held inside and outside the club and said: “Arriving here, I thought it was important for the club to have a figurehead on the playing side.
“When you come into a new club, you want someone who epitomises what the club represents on and off the field. I’ve been greatly impressed by Michael’s attitude, and he’s been included on the RFL’s new inclusion board.
“Huddersfield is a diverse place and I believe that Michael’s values and attitude mirrors the values of the area, the owner Ken Davy and the club and that’s what I wanted.”
While Lawrence will take the lead off the field, there will be no change on it. Watson added: “Aidan Sezer will continue as our captain on the field with Adam O’Brien, who both set high standard within the team.
“I wanted to add someone who would be able to epitomise Huddersfield, and as someone who’s been here his entire career, I believe Michael can show all of us what’s important to the club and the people of the town. We will all learn from Michael.”
Lawrence is excited at the opportunity and said: “It’s an honour and a privilege. I’m really proud to be appointed, and being a hometown boy and playing for my hometown club it really means a lot.
“I think I’ve got similar values to Ken and what he wants for the club. It means a lot to me, I want us to be successful and I want to represent the club well.
“We’ve got a great bunch of leaders and senior players in this group and we will work well together in the coming season.”
