Hull FC have confirmed that Luke Gale has been named first-team captain for the 2022 Betfred Super League campaign.
The England international half-back, a former Castleford and Leeds captain, will lead the Blacks and Whites in the new campaign after joining the club in November.
One of Super League’s most notable half-backs of the past decade, Hull has acquired the services of former Super League Man of Steel for the new season, which has racked up more than 320 career appearances, scoring 115 tries and scoring 731 goals, which represents Harlequins and Bradford, alongside the two West Yorkshire sides in the Rhinos and Tigers
Having had a significant impact on the team since his arrival with his unquestionable leadership qualities, head coach Brett Hodgson made the announcement to the group of players earlier today on day three of their camp. pre-season training at the Elite Athlete Center at Loughborough University.
Hodgson acknowledged the significant contributions former captains Danny Houghton and Scott Taylor have made to the group in their leadership roles, before appointing the new FC captain – the 59th player in Hull history to take on the role.
Gale led his first session as skipper in this afternoon’s captain’s race, ahead of tomorrow’s practice match against the Betfred Championship London Broncos.
Speaking after being awarded the captaincy for 2022, Gale said: “It is an extremely proud moment for me, and a huge honor and privilege. I’m really excited for this opportunity and the year ahead.
“Hull FC are a huge club and I played against that team for many years and to have my name up there with so many past captains is really special to me.
“I have a lot of experience – it’s my 14th pre-season and I’ve played a lot of games. I’m not perfect and I don’t have all the answers, but I go out there and give 110% and put the team first every time I step on the pitch.
“I do my best to lead from the front, be vocal and lead by example.”
He added: “I want to thank Danny Houghton and Scott Taylor, who I think have done a great job with the captaincy; there are a lot of leaders in this team and they are two of the greatest. They are both modern-day stalwarts and legends for what they gave to this team.
On the decision to appoint Gale as its captain, Brett Hodgson added: “Luke came to our club with an exceptional pedigree. He has played internationally and the leadership he has brought to our group has been immense.
“He leads by example, he’s not afraid to challenge senior players but he also encourages junior players, which is an important trait for our captain.
“I said at the end of last year that we were going to change captains and I think he’s a new voice that can inspire those around him. I’m impressed with what he’s shown so far. now and I can’t wait to see more from him.
