Jack Sinfield out to build Wakefield Trinity legacy away from Leeds Rhinos shadow

Jack Sinfield, the son of Leeds Rhinos legend Kevin, has always carried the weight of expectation on his shoulders.

From the moment he first pulled on a Leeds shirt, the youngster has been measured against a career that set the bar impossibly high.

Every step is taken in the shadow of his father's legacy, making the task of carving out his own identity all the more taxing.

Jack has embraced that challenge by moving on from the club that immortalised his dad to forge a new path at Wakefield Trinity.

"It was a big decision but I think it was the right decision for me and my future," he said.

"I haven't had as many opportunities as I would have liked over the last few years. That's because I've had some great players in front of me.

"I think a fresh start will be good for me. It motivates you to start again. I have to build connections again and earn the respect of all the players and staff.

"Wakefield isn't too far away so the change isn't too big. I'm enjoying it so far."

Sinfield Snr ended his career as the most decorated captain in Leeds' history after leading the Rhinos to seven Super League titles, two Challenge Cups and three World Club Challenges.

Not only that, he is the club's all-time record points scorer and earned 40 international caps for Great Britain and England.

But Jack has already done something his dad never did: moved clubs and left behind all he has ever known.

"It's different to what my dad did but you can't just base things on that," added Jack, who grew up on the Headingley terraces.

"My dad has been very supportive of me coming here. He just wants what's best for me and the best place for me to continue my career.

"Those comparisons are all I've ever known but this fresh start and stepping out of my comfort zone will be good for me."

Jack may have moved out of his father's shadow but he hasn't entirely left the past behind.

Daryl Powell, who played alongside and coached Kevin in the early days of Super League, now finds himself guiding another Sinfield at Wakefield.

For Jack, it is a chance to work with a familiar figure while still establishing himself on his own terms.

"My dad has told me a lot about Daryl," said Sinfield Jnr. "A few of my friends have played under Daryl at different clubs as well so I know a lot about him.

"He's a very experienced coach and plays a very attacking style of rugby. That can only be good for me as a half.

"I think I'll learn a lot from him. He's a really good coach and a really nice guy.

"But he's honest as well and knows what he wants from his players. I've only got good things to say about him so far."

Among Sinfield's motivations under Powell's watch is to establish himself as a starting half-back in Super League.

The 21-year-old made 14 appearances for Leeds in 2025 – the most productive season of his fledgling career – but he was still left wanting more, a clear sign of his ambition.

Sinfield views Wakefield as the perfect place to realise his team and individual goals.

"It's definitely a club on the up," he said.

"We've got a really exciting squad with a mix of experience and youth.

"It's a really exciting time to be here. There's a lot of investment going into the club and I can only see a positive future here.

"My main goal to start with is to earn my spot in the team."

As Jack settles into his new surroundings at Belle Vue, his dad continues to inspire with his astonishing fundraising feats.

On Friday, the 45-year-old completed the fifth of seven consecutive ultra-marathons in support of the MND community.

Sinfield has already surpassed his target of £777,777, leaving his son in awe.

"I think he's a bit mad but I'm obviously really proud of him," said Jack.

"The money and awareness he's raising for MND is brilliant. I'm not sure I'd be able to do it.

"Growing up around him and seeing how hard he works can only be good for me. To be able to look up to that and follow in his footsteps has been good.

"Some of the stuff he does is mad but it makes me work even harder."

While he carves out his own legacy, one constant remains: family pride.

Jack may even be able to convince his dad to don Trinity colours.

"I think he'd try to hide away from the Sky cameras," joked Jack. "But he just supports whatever I do so I think he'll be a Wakey fan."