In collaboration with Hull Kingston Rovers’ principal partner Connexin, scrum-half Brad Schneider revealed his thoughts ahead of their monumental clash in the Challenge Cup final against Leigh Leopards this Saturday (12 August 2023).
Schneider, who joined from the Canberra Raiders a month ago, has already etched his name into Hull KR folklore with his decisive performances, including a drop goal in golden point extra-time against Wigan Warriors to secure Rovers’ place in the final.
As the Robins prepare to step onto the grand stage of Wembley for the first time since 2015, the 22-year-old spoke with club partner Connexin, the Hull based smart solutions provider, and expressed his gratitude at being part of such an historic moment for both the club and the city.
“When I first came over [to Hull], I didn’t really know too much about the cup but in the time I’ve been here, I understand how much it means to people, especially to the staff around the club and to the players,” said Schneider.
“The opportunity doesn’t come around too often to too many people, so it’s a privilege to be able to be a part of it and hopefully we get the job done on the weekend.”
With up to 20,000 Hull KR fans expected to be in attendance, their support will undoubtedly provide a spirited boost for the coaches and players.
Despite being in the North-East for such a short period of time, Schneider commended their passion, which he believes will play an instrumental part in their pursuit of silverware.
“From day one, I got to go to the derby and just seeing the supporters, how much it means to them and how much they get involved. It’s such a great atmosphere here and I love being here.
“The supporters have been awesome and so positive towards me. It helps a lot to have them, and hopefully as many as we can get down at the game on the weekend. It will be such a help and it’s always awesome when you’re seeing the red and white out there.
“Just seeing how much it means to people and how much it means to everyone at the club, its own feeling. It’s a great final and I haven’t been a part of one yet but it’s an unreal experience to be a part of.”
Recognising the opportunity the club has given to him, Schneider also stated a sense of duty to repay the faith placed in him, aiming to reciprocate through victory in the final.
“They’ve given me the chance to come here and play some quality rugby against some quality teams, and it’s just more so for me to give back to everyone that sort of took the risk of bringing me here, flying me over from across the other side of the world to come and play.
“It’s time for me to give back and the least I could do is try winning the Challenge Cup final.”