Key Points
- Former Leeds Rhinos forward Josh Jordan-Roberts is included in Hunslet ARLFC’s squad for the National Conference League Premier Division title decider at Wakefield Trinity’s DIY Kitchens Stadium, Belle Vue.
- Jordan-Roberts made two substitute appearances for the Rhinos across the 2016 and 2017 seasons before enjoying professional spells with Bradford Bulls, York Knights, Rochdale Hornets, Midlands Hurricanes, and two separate stints at Hunslet RLFC.
- The 26-year-old retired from professional rugby league last year following a persistent knee injury, subsequently joining amateur side Hunslet ARLFC at the start of the current campaign while also featuring for Keighley Cougars over the summer.
- Hunslet ARLFC head coach Sam Thorpe praised Jordan-Roberts for bringing high-level professional expertise, composure, and leadership to the squad during the crucial final matches of the season and play-off run.
- Hunslet ARLFC face West Hull in the showpiece 3pm kick-off as the city side aims to claim top-flight amateur rugby league glory.
Wakefield (The Leeds Times) October 23, 2026 – Former Leeds Rhinos forward Josh Jordan-Roberts is set to take centre stage for Hunslet ARLFC as the south Leeds outfit bid for Grand Final glory in the National Conference League Premier Division title decider.The 26-year-old forward has been named in the matchday squad for the showpiece decider against West Hull at Wakefield Trinity’s DIY Kitchens Stadium, Belle Vue, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00pm.
Jordan-Roberts, who came through the academy ranks at Headingley, made two senior substitute appearances for Leeds Rhinos during the 2016 and 2017 Super League eras. Following his departure from the top-flight club, he forged a prominent career in the semi-professional and professional ranks, representing Bradford Bulls, York Knights, Rochdale Hornets, and Midlands Hurricanes, along with two distinct spells with Hunslet RLFC.
Persistent knee issues ultimately forced Jordan-Roberts to step down from full-time professional rugby league last year. However, he linked up with amateur stalwarts Hunslet ARLFC at the beginning of the current campaign. His summer also featured a stint with League One side Keighley Cougars before returning to reinforce Hunslet ARLFC’s squad for their title run.
As reported by Peter Smith of the Yorkshire Evening Post, Hunslet ARLFC head coach Sam Thorpe explained that
“He played for us in the last few games of the season and the play-offs. He has helped us out, bringing his knowledge from the professional game. He’s still a very good professional and a calming influence.”
Thorpe highlighted the invaluable experience the former Super League forward brings to the amateur outfit, noting that his transition into the squad provided a crucial layer of composure during high-stakes play-off fixtures leading into the Grand Final.
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What Is the Background to Josh Jordan-Roberts’ Transition and Hunslet ARLFC’s Title Bid?
The path leading Josh Jordan-Roberts to the National Conference League Grand Final reflects a journey through every tier of British rugby league. After emerging from the youth system at Leeds Rhinos, his two senior appearances for the Headingley club established his credentials as a versatile and formidable forward. Subsequent moves to traditional powerhouse clubs such as Bradford Bulls and York Knights solidified his reputation across the Championship and League One tiers.
During his dual spells with professional side Hunslet RLFC, Jordan-Roberts established himself as a key second-row forward, celebrated for his work ethic and tackle count. However, the physical demands of professional rugby league took a heavy toll, resulting in recurrent knee injuries that forced him to end his professional career prematurely last season.
Rather than stepping away from the sport entirely, Jordan-Roberts opted to return to the grassroots game with Hunslet ARLFC at the start of the current season.
His quality remained evident, prompting semi-professional side Keighley Cougars to utilize his services over the summer months. Following the conclusion of his commitment with Keighley, Jordan-Roberts rejoined Hunslet ARLFC for the crucial run-in of the National Conference League Premier Division.
Hunslet ARLFC’s march to the Grand Final involved navigating an intense play-off campaign. Their place in the title decider was secured through a hard-fought semi-final victory over Waterhead Warriors, where a second-half try from Ben Shulver and tactical kicking from Harry Shackleton proved decisive. The final match at Belle Vue pits Hunslet ARLFC against West Hull, bringing together two of the premier amateur rugby league clubs in the country to compete for top honors.
How Will This Development Impact Grassroots Rugby League and Local Supporters?
The inclusion of an experienced former professional like Josh Jordan-Roberts in the National Conference League Grand Final carries significant implications for the amateur game, local supporters, and community rugby league in the Leeds area.
For the players at Hunslet ARLFC, sharing a dressing room with a former Super League forward elevates standards across the squad. The elite preparation, tactical awareness, and professional discipline brought by Jordan-Roberts serve as a direct learning tool for younger amateur players aspiring to test themselves at higher levels. His presence provides a calming influence in high-pressure matches, allowing surrounding players to execute under stress.
The transition of former professional players into top-tier amateur competitions like the National Conference League enhances the profile and quality of grass-roots rugby league. Highlighting stories of ex-professionals staying active within their local communities demonstrates a viable pathway for players retiring from the professional game due to injury or lifestyle changes, keeping valuable experience within the rugby league ecosystem.
For south Leeds rugby supporters, the Grand Final appearance at a professional venue like Wakefield Trinity’s DIY Kitchens Stadium marks a celebration of local sporting heritage. The presence of recognized local figures adds storyline interest for fans, driving attendance and gate receipts for the amateur game while strengthening community identity through competitive success.
