JACK Sinfield has two aims on his agenda for this year – becoming a Leeds Rhinos regular in this year’s Super League and passing his A-Levels.
Some days, the 18-year-old is a regular, run of the mill student at Ashton Sixth Form College – on others he commutes to West Yorkshire for training.
That means long days as he studies maths, business and economics, and near 80-mile round trips, just like famous father Kevin did as he was trying to make it.
Jack said: “He helps me because he knows what it’s like to juggle everything and making sure I have a life outside of college and rugby as well.
“That’s because he knows how important it was when he was in the same situation. I come straight into training during the day and then, on my days off, I’ll go into college.
“When I get home, I catch up with all my work at night. It’s tough and I’ve got my exams this year, so I have to fit in revision.”
Sinfield does not have to look far for an example on making it in rugby league, just across the front room to his dad, who is now England rugby union defence coach.
But becoming the next Kevin is not what he wants – he wants to be the first Jack.
He added: “Following in dad’s footsteps is something I try not and really focus on.
“I try and be my own sort of person, as proud as I am of him. People like Ash Handley played with him, so it’s a bit weird but it doesn’t bother me.
“Obviously I’m really proud of what he achieved and hopefully I can replicate it.
“He’s always there if I ever need him but he puts no pressure on me. He just makes sure I’m enjoying what I do. As long as I’m enjoying myself, he’s not really bothered what I do.
“And there’s no real piece of advice that sticks with me. I’d say it’s more the example I’ve got from him. Just knowing that he always gives his all and, when anyone else needs him, he’s always there to be depended on.”
Mention the name Sinfield and Kevin’s fundraising challenges that have raised more than £7 million for motor neurone disease charities in the name of friend and former team-mate Rob Burrow come to mind.
So far, Jack has not joined one of his huge training runs around Saddleworth, for a simple reason.
He added: “I don’t think I’d keep up with him!
“But I’m really proud of what he’s doing. It’s obviously horrible what has gone on with Rob but the way Rob has responded and my dad being that sort of leader for the MND community, I’m really proud of him and really respect what Rob has done as well.”