Hull FC have bolstered their academy squad with three new signings.
Hull FC have signed three young Welsh rugby league players to their academy squad for the 2026 season. The Black and Whites have signed up Charlie Cullen-Thomas, Joshua Harding, and William Mathers, with all three players joining the club as a result of its talent identification system and partnership with Wales Rugby League.
After a successful trial period with the club, Cullen-Thomas joins Hull after playing for the Black and Whites in the summer. He is currently the captain of Wales under-18s and has played rugby union for the Scarlets as well as rugby league for Swansea Rams. He was named 18th man for Wales’ senior side against Ireland this autumn, despite being just 17 years old.
Meanwhile, Harding joins Hull after captaining Wales’ under-16 side to Four Nations success earlier this year. He came through the Dragons rugby union pathway, but gained amateur rugby league experience with Aber Valley Wolves and has previously spent time in the Warrington Wolves Scholarship systems.
Mathers also joins Hull from the Wales under-16 system. He also spent time in the Leeds Rhinos Scholarship programme having played amateur rugby league for Kippax Welfare.
All three players will balance their rugby league with education while at Hull FC, studying public services, sport, and business courses.
Speaking on the signing, Hull FC Academy coach Francis Cummins said: “We’re really proud to welcome Charlie, Joshua, and William into our academy programme. Their talent, attitude, and passion for the game are clear, and they represent the exciting potential within the Wales Rugby League system.
“Our relationship with Clive Griffiths and the Wales Rugby League staff continues to grow, and it’s fantastic to see that partnership producing genuine opportunities for young athletes to reach the next level.”
Wales Rugby League Performance Director, Clive Griffiths, added: “It’s great to see these young Welsh players being recognised by a top Super League club like Hull FC. This is exactly the kind of pathway we want to build: one that connects our developing players with professional environments while allowing them to continue their education and personal growth. The future is looking very bright for Welsh Rugby League.”