Jack Sinfield will become Leeds star his way – not because he is Kevin’s son
THE NAME Sinfield is ready to make its mark on Super League again – only this is the first Jack, not the next Kevin.
And the key? No pressure from his famous father.
Being the son of a 13-a-side legend at Leeds, whose skills are making an impact in the 15-a-side game and who is on his way to a knighthood because of his fundraising feats has had some effect, though.
For the calm head, the drive to succeed and the ability to balance rugby life with personal life have been passed on.
So has the half back's progression at the Rhinos. However, this is not a boy force fed by dad – dad was only called on when he was wanted.
All while studying for his A-levels close to his Oldham home, some 40 miles from where he attempts to make the grade.
Jack, 18, who has exams in maths, business and economics this year, said: “Following in dad’s footsteps is something I try not to really focus on.
“I try and be my own sort of person, as proud as I am of him. People like Ash Handley played with him, so it’s a bit weird but it doesn’t bother me.
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“Obviously I’m really proud of what he achieved and hopefully I can replicate it.
“He’s always there if I ever need him but he puts no pressure on me. He just makes sure I’m enjoying what I do. As long as I’m enjoying myself, he’s not really bothered what I do.
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“He helps me because he knows what it’s like to juggle everything and making sure I have a life outside of college and rugby as well.
“That’s because he knows how important it was when he was in the same situation. I come straight into training during the day and then, on my days off, I’ll go into college.
“When I get home, I catch up with all my work at night. It’s tough and I’ve got my exams this year, so I have to fit in revision.
“There’s no real piece of advice that sticks with me. I’d say it’s more the example I’ve got from him. Just knowing that he always gives his all and, when anyone else needs him, he’s always there to be depended on.
“And if we went to Churchill Playing Fields or Saddleworth Rangers ARLFC, it would come more from me asking. He never forced anything on me – it always came from me.”
Mention the name Sinfield and Kevin’s fundraising challenges that have raised more than £7 million for motor neurone disease charities in the name of pal and former team-mate Rob Burrow come to mind.
So far, Jack has not joined his old man on one of his huge training runs around their Saddleworth base, for a simple reason.
He added: “I don’t think I’d keep up with him!
“But I’m really proud of what he’s doing. It’s obviously horrible what has gone on with Rob but the way Rob has responded and my dad being that sort of leader for the MND community, I’m really proud of him and really respect what Rob has done as well.”
One day, Jack hopes to be recognised for his on-field achievements as much as his dad.
That would mean starring at Old Trafford in a Grand Final, which he cheered from the stands as he recalled while aiming to go one better than last year’s loss to St Helens: “I’ve always been a Leeds fan and I never would not be a Leeds fan.
“Obviously I was at most of those finals, so it’s special to look back and hopefully it’s something I can replicate and he can come and watch me in them.
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“Last year It was different because I was part of the group, even though I was still in the stands.
“Hopefully we can go a step further this year.”