JAMES Donaldson has spoken on his delight at becoming a father – ahead of the start of a new season for Leeds Rhinos.

The former Wath Brow Hornets star’s partner gave birth last week and when he returned to training he told the club website it was the ‘best feeling in the world’. He praised his wife Georgia saying she ‘smashed it and it feels great’.

Now the Rhinos forward is putting his head down to prepare for his side’s only pre-season friendly of the year – a trip to Huddersfield Giants on Sunday, ko 2pm.

Donaldson said pre-season had gone well for the Rhinos and he was feeling good about their Super League prospects this term.

“Things are really starting to come together,” he told the rhinos.co.uk. “The players that joined us have strengthened us and it’s been a great pre-season for us all, especially the younger boys.

“They’ve kicked on for us which is massive for the team’s development going forward.

“Now we are just looking forward to the next few weeks.”

And on his own form, Donaldson says he just has to keep doing what he does best.

“I’m feeling great and I just want to build on what I did over the last few years, bringing some energy, And do what I do best - keep grafting away.”

Leeds begin their Super League campaign away at Wakefield on March 27.