Leeds Rhinos Under-18s look to make a statement in their first game of the 2025 Under-18s Academy campaign as they put their pre-season preparations into practise against the reigning Academy Grand Final Champions Wigan Warriors at Stanningley on Friday night, kick off 7pm.

An exciting season ahead for Chev Walker's side has seen a number of players get early minutes as they've been involved in the first games of the Reserves season, plus they got an opportunity to test themselves in a tightly fought trial match against Hull FC. Thanks to tries from Joe Diskin, Zak Lloyd and two from Jacob Stead, the Rhinos Under-18s took away an 18-6 result against the black and whites, but Wigan will pose a different challenge as they start their Academy Championship retention.

Wigan's Academy begin a new era as Matty Smith takes over as head coach for the upcoming season. Smith was involved in the youth teams during his time in the Wigan first team between 2012 and 2016, and progressed as a coach at St Helens after hanging up the boots. The last two years saw Smith help Saints' Women's outfit win back to back Challenge Cup titles at Wembley Stadium, plus he also added a Grand Final appearance in last year's defeat to York.

Now in charge of the next generation of talent in Cherry and White, he takes charge of a side who had three players in last year's England Academy lineup (Kian McDermott, Lukas Mason, Taylor Kerr) who have subsequently been given first team squad numbers for the year ahead. Ten players also made the step up from the Scholarship to sign new deals witn the club and could be selected for Friday's trip to Stanningley to take on the Rhinos.

Last time out

The Warriors got the best of the Leeds at AMT Headingley last time out as they walked out 34-18 victors. Jacob Stead, Jayemm Oladipupo and Joe Phillips were the try scorers for Leeds, who suffered their third defeat of the season to the eventual champions.

Behind the Rhinos Academy

As part of their pre-season preparations, Leeds Rhinos gave all their Academy and Reserves players the opportunity to complete an ECG to make sure they are ready for the upcoming campaign.

Take a look behind the scenes to understand more about the process and why it's an important part of preparing youth players to play sport.

More Information

Entry is £5 for adults and £3 for juniors through the main clubhouse, plus there will be food and drink available to purchase at the outside kiosk. Team Sheets are available for all spectators.