Hull FC are set for a massive year as the squad looks to take the first steps into their long-term rebuild. Knowing a tough road lies ahead, the focus is on the key rugby league fundamentals, with hard work, grit, effort, and the like placed above all else.

And in John Cartwright, they have the perfect man to drive those standards. That's the view of young hooker Denive Balmforth, who knows the club's head coach isn't afraid to give the players a kick up the backside when needed.

That's what it's all about, with a tough pre-season taking place - one that will hopefully turn the Black and Whites into a more resilient outfit as they aim to right the wrongs of a torrid 2024 season.

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Speaking to Hull Live, Balmforth, who, as exclusively reported this week, recently signed a new three-year contract at the club, said: "John is just a great bloke. He's really approachable, but he's really strong as well. Sometimes you do need a kick up the backside; if we've not trained to the level we can, or if we haven't got the most of the day, then we come in the next morning and we'll get told about it.

"It's the same with Lasty (Andy Last); they're not shy to give the lads that kick up the backside. But I'm getting along really well with John. Again, he's really approachable, and he has those brutally honest chats with you. He tells you what you need to do, but he also tells you what you've been good at as well."

In action once again this weekend, Hull take on Castleford for Joe Westerman's testimonial match in their one and only pre-season game. For Balmforth, it's a chance to lay down a marker to Cartwright, who has instilled a one-in-all-in mentality, with cup and league action following from next week.

"Pre-season has been really good," Balmforth added. "John has come in with a mindset of getting the basics nailed on and going back to route one rugby, getting us really fit, and building us mentally tough for what needs to be a big year. I'm pretty confident with how we've been going that it will be.

"I think with it being so tough last year, it wasn't a pretty vibe to come in with heads down, but with it being a fresh start and with plenty of new faces, it's now enjoyable rocking up to work every day. All the new lads have come in, and everyone has gelled really well together, not only on the pitch but off it as well. I think that plays a massive part in how successful a team can be on the field."

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