There’s nothing more special than seeing one of your own rise through the ranks – and that’s exactly what Elliot Middlemas has done.
The young Hull FC winger has officially broken into the club’s first team, marking a huge milestone in his Rugby League journey. But long before he pulled on the senior shirt against the Wigan Warriors, Elliot was just another enthusiastic youngster enjoying his rugby at Hull FC Foundation’s popular half-term camps.
Like so many aspiring players across the city, Elliot first connected with the club through the Foundation programme. At the half-term camps, he developed his skills, built confidence, made new friends and, most importantly, fell even more in love with the game.
Those early sessions gave him the chance to learn from experienced coaches and experience a professional environment for the first time. The camps are designed to inspire the next generation – and Elliot’s journey is proof of what can happen with dedication, hard work and the right support network around you.
Reflecting on his journey, Elliot said:
“I wouldn’t have guessed for the majority of my career, to be honest, that I’d go from Foundation days on a Tuesday night to training with the first-team on a Tuesday morning – it’s certainly astonishing for me!”
His connection to the club goes back even further.
“I came to games when I was a little kid and I remember sitting in the South Stand with my Mum, watching players like Briscoe and Yeaman when I was growing up.”
Coming through multiple clubs on his pathway to the top has made the achievement even more meaningful.
“Coming through multiple clubs to get to this point makes it even more special. Now when I pull on the shirt every week, I want to do a job for the boys I’m with, the players I’m playing alongside, and the coaches too – rewarding the hard work we put in during pre-season and the sacrifices we all make.”
Elliot’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible through the Hull FC Foundation pathway.
If you’re inspired by his journey, take a look at our Hull FC Foundation programmes on the website and start your own story today.
