SAM Hallas is in the minority at Odsal because he knows exactly where he will be next season.

The non-stop hooker has already committed to the Bulls after recently signing a two-year deal from Leeds Rhinos.

So while many of his team-mates are pondering their options for 2018, Hallas is happy to have put down some roots.

And the prospect of playing in the bottom tier doesn't bother him one bit.

Hallas said: "I signed a contract to play for Bradford, not to play Championship or League One.

"Ever since I came here, I've felt really welcome and enjoyed my rugby.

"I was going through a spell when I was learning how to play hooker. Going to training was tough.

"But I came here, everyone was welcoming and I feel like I've picked up how to play the position a lot quicker."

While Hallas is very happy with life at the club, he can still appreciate the uncertainty affecting many of the others in the changing room. He has been there before.

"I know what they are going through," he added. "I've been in situations where my future has been up in the air as well.

"A lot of them still don't know what is going on. They are playing for their futures so that is a bit of a carrot at the end of the stick.

"For me personally, it's the first time in a while I've had a bit of job security. It's nice to relax and know I'm settled for the next couple of years."

Vila Halafihi voiced his concerns this week and Hallas is hoping his fellow hooker's efforts are rewarded with the chance to stick with the Bulls.

Hallas said: "I think Vila has been absolutely outstanding. He doesn't have a clue what's going on next year.

"To put in performances, out of position, like he has been doing is unbelievable. That's testament to the kind of bloke he is.

"He wants to stay but it's out of his hands."

Averaging over 50 tackles a game, nobody has put more into a desperate cause than Hallas.

He also notched his first try for the club last week in the win over Swinton.

"It's been a long time coming. I don't score many so I'm happy, even if they come from half a yard out – especially as it led to a win.

"It's all happening now. The pressure is off and everything is coming together.

"We're starting to enjoy the rugby a bit more.

"Obviously it's not ideal when relegation is guaranteed but it's massive to give the fans something to cheer about in these remaining games. They've been unbelievable all year.

"They keep showing up, even though some weeks we've been getting pumped against lesser teams."

Those loyal supporters will also be able to start looking at league tables against next season - something that Hallas has steered clear of.

The prospect of being part of a promotion push after the challenges of 2017 is something he is looking forward to.

"It will be nice to start the same as every other team and just push for promotion," he said.

"We want to be on that level playing field and not having all eyes on us.

"With the minus 12, everyone was watching and we're a really young team. It was a lot of pressure to have.

"Everyone is going to expect big things because we're Bradford Bulls playing in League One.

"But it's a different kind of pressure to chase promotion and be a good side rather than trying to do a Great Escape to stay up."