Chris and Ron meet the Warriors

Warriors on Tour

Members of Wigan Warriors took time out to visit schools in the north of the borough this week.

Pat Richards and new signing Brett Finch delighted pupils and staff alike during their trips to Aspull Church School, Haigh St David’s and Canon Sharples C of E.
The two players – both currently recovering from injuries – signed autographs and took questions from the children. The schools had been preparing by holding a ‘Red and White’ day, with regular uniforms swapped for Warriors’ strip in honour of their visitors.

“We’re thrilled to meet our young fans,“ says winger Pat Richards. “It’s great that we have their support from such an early age and they are really keen too.”

The visit is part of work by cabinet member Cllr Chris Ready to develop ever closer links between the team and the town. He and leader Lord Smith met with manager Michael McGuire last week, and Cllr Ready also met with Latics coach Roberto Martinez this week to continue the rapport with the premier league team as well.

The players – accompanied by officials, two tv crews and the World Club Challenge Cup itself – spent time in classrooms and assemblies at each school. They even took questions on delicate subjects that some of the grown-up journalists were nervous about asking. Challenged by one 7 year old on his choice of team for his international career, Pat Richards said that he was proud to play for both Wigan and for Ireland, where his parents hailed from.
Cllr Chris Ready said: “It’s excellent that both the Latics and the Warriors are so positive about supporting our community and bring our local sporting culture right to the fans of tomorrow. The children know a surprising amount about their local teams and that’s great for the future, and it is also great that the players are happy to spend time meeting young fans.”

Brett Finch was thrilled to hear Aspull Church School pupils singing their school anthem, and also thanked young fans at Haigh St David’s for making him welcome in the UK. Visiting Canon Sharples Primary in New Springs, he said: “The support and enthusiasm of the children has been great to see and we’ve made some great friends here today.”
Roy Mason, head of Canon Sharples, said: “Welcome to the Warriors – and thank you for brightening the children’s day and letting them meet their heroes.”



Although Brett and Pat will be out for the World Cup Challenge itself, they proudly showed off the trophy to the children and vowed to encourage Warriors to win it in style at the 27 February match against Australians St George Illawarra Dragons.