A sentimental moment for the Last family.
The 2027 Hull FC season will carry extra meaning for Andy Last, with twin sons Issac and Jacob signing academy contracts with the club.
Part of an all-conquering West Hull side, the twins will step up to under-18s rugby league with the Black and Whites after two years in the scholarship system, joined by the likes of Jake Fletcher, Bobby Hewitt, and Henry Cator.
The club’s new academy players were unveiled at the MKM Stadium at half-time during Saturday’s Super League game against Warrington Wolves, with the new crop containing players from West Yorkshire and South Wales.
“I rushed down just before the game to get on the photo,” Last said. “When they signed for the scholarship, I was in France with Catalans Dragons, so I missed that. But it was nice to be able to stand at the side with my wife and their grandparents and see the two boys signing their contracts.
“It was a nice moment and hopefully they have long careers with the black and whites. They’re both good lads and exceptional young players. I’m looking forward to seeing how they develop.
Asked if they’re better than their dad, who played 29 times for Hull from 1999 to 2005, Last continued: “Absolutely. Easy question that. Isaac has got me well and truly covered as a hooker and Jacob the scrum half; I’ve got high hopes for them both.”
On the Green and Golds crop, which also contains the likes of Cameron Windley and Jethro Attah-Boakye, who Hull Live understands have signed lucrative contracts with Wakefield Trinity, Last added: “It’s an exceptionally good team. West Hull are playing in the National Cup final next week on Sunday. And that will probably secure them as being one of the best amateur teams that the game has had.
“They’ve won Yorkshire Cups at every age group and National Cups at every age group. They got to the final last year underage and got narrowly beaten by Lock Lane.
“It is an exceptionally good team and the club has managed to keep the core of that team together. It’s exciting times for Hull FC, not only with the juniors coming through but also with the new additions that Steve has brought in. There are some exciting times and we’re looking forward to it.”