Exclusive Interview with Leroy Cudjoe
Huddersfield Giants Legend • 18 Seasons • Leadership, Longevity & Lessons
Transitioning From the Backs to the Forwards
Earlier in your career you were playing Centre, but now you’re a Loose Forward. What goes into making that shift?
I’d say my ability to learn and transition into a new position came early on in my career. When I first came through I was a Fullback/Standoff. It wasn’t until Nathan Brown came to the club that I moved into Centre. More recently in 2023, Watto moved me into the back row and I enjoyed some success there.
Moving into the middle came at the end of 2023 when we didn’t have many options, so I put my hand up to play and that was it — I was now a middle! I spent the 2024 pre-season getting reps at 13, and although I wasn’t sure how I’d fit in because Luke Yates was our starting 13, he was banned for Round 1 and I kept my place from there.
I’ve loved every minute of learning, especially from players like Yatesy and Chris Hill.
Moving into the middle came at the end of 2023 when we didn’t have many options, so I put my hand up to play and that was it — I was now a middle! I spent the 2024 pre-season getting reps at 13, and although I wasn’t sure how I’d fit in because Luke Yates was our starting 13, he was banned for Round 1 and I kept my place from there.
I’ve loved every minute of learning, especially from players like Yatesy and Chris Hill.
Longevity, Recovery & Looking After the Body
Have you made any changes to your routine when it comes to recovery and looking after your body?
Recovery and preparation became massive for me after injuries in 2018 and 2019. Before training I prep with stretching and activation. After training it's soft tissue massage, hot/cold recovery, air relax machines, and a late-night stretch.
Weight consistency is also key — knee injuries mean I can’t be too heavy. The less force through my joints, the better. Overall, the key is staying consistent.
Weight consistency is also key — knee injuries mean I can’t be too heavy. The less force through my joints, the better. Overall, the key is staying consistent.
18 Seasons With Huddersfield Giants
What’s been the key to maintaining such a strong relationship with the club?
There has been interest from SL clubs and even NRL, but Huddersfield always looked after me. They’re my hometown club and gave me my first opportunity. I’m a loyal person and I value that. Sometimes timing played a part but overall, we’ve been good for each other.
Pre-Season: What Works Best?
What kind of pre-season best prepares you mentally and physically?
It depends on the squad. Army camps are great at the right time — they build resilience and toughness. Warm weather camps help with quality and combinations. Regardless, the goal every year is preparing the mind and body and building reps with the players around you.
The 2013 League Leaders’ Shield Team
What made the 2013 team so strong?
The main factors were consistency and limited injuries, especially in the spine. We simplified our focus and played to our strengths. We had threats everywhere on the pitch. I think we missed an opportunity to win a major trophy during that 2013–2015 period.
Handling the 2024 Injury Crisis
How challenging has the constant change been this season?
This has been the worst injury period I’ve seen at the club. Missing a big chunk of the spine in pre-season didn’t help. The last three weeks have been the most consistent the team has been all season.
Chopping and changing makes combinations difficult, so we’ve had to focus on effort areas and defence. Resilience has been key.
Chopping and changing makes combinations difficult, so we’ve had to focus on effort areas and defence. Resilience has been key.
Challenge Cup Final Experiences
What was it like playing Finals at Wembley and Tottenham?
Final week is an amazing experience — the build-up, cameras everywhere, the buzz around town. Walking into the stadium with packed streets and hearing the roar is something I’ll never forget.
Should the Final be moved?
I wouldn’t want to see it moved anywhere else. Wembley has history, and Tottenham creates a great atmosphere. If I had to choose, it’s Wembley.
Final Five
Best leader?
Sean O'Loughlin (England) / Brett Hodgson (Huddersfield)
Favourite fixture?
Leeds Rhinos.
Favourite try / assist?
Try: Warrington away in the playoffs (intercept).
Assist: Flick pass to Michael Lawrence vs St Helens.
Most exciting prospect?
George Flanagan — plus Archie Sykes & Jacob Algar.
Three pieces of advice for young players:
1) Work hard — the game is too hard not to.
2) Be coachable and willing to learn.
3) Be clear on your “why” and give it everything.
Charity Spotlight
Forget Me Not Children's Hospice
Providing nursing care, creative therapy, end-of-life care and support for families.
Providing nursing care, creative therapy, end-of-life care and support for families.
Thank you very much to Leroy for taking the time to answer these questions.