It would be unfair to say new signing Anthony McCormack stands out on the pitch just because of his hair. McCormack stands out on the pitch because of his talent, which was on display in Saturday’s friendly at Darlington Mowden Park. The result may not have gone our way, but McCormack and fellow new signings Fynlay Hobson and Adam Brankley more than stepped up to the challenge of playing against the National One side. McCormack won his fair share of lineouts and put himself about making tackles and joining in with moves. And that run out has filled him with confidence ahead of the season opener on Saturday at home to Otley.
“After Saturday’s game, I’ve got a lot of confidence going into the new season,” McCormack said.
“Pre-season was pretty tough. We were put to the test but we’ve all stuck at it.
“The step up against Darlington was a pretty big shock.
“Going from U18s to men’s rugby, there were things you could do before and get away with it, but not at this level. I learnt that the hard way.
“I thought we did well overall in the game against a team from a higher league than us.
“We held our own and we showed what we’ve been working on.”
So how has McCormack’s journey led him to Chants Ave?
“I started out playing league at Brighouse and I was given a scholarship at Wakefield. I got picked up by Yorkshire Rugby Academy through the DPP set up.
“I was then involved in summer camps with Scotland U17s and U18s and my two years at Bishop Burton College has helped me progress to get to where I am now.
“The boys have been very welcoming to me and I think I’ve fitted right in.
“I knew a few of the lads from before and even if I didn’t know any of them, I’d still have settled in quickly.
“I want to get as many minutes under my belt as possible, and work to get my roles right and be the best I can be.”
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 