In his monthly column for the Warrington Guardian, Warrington Wolves chairman Stuart Middleton addresses the team’s performances and updates on recruitment for 2023…

FIRST and foremost, I am a lifelong loyal and committed supporter of this club and share the frustrations and disappointment of our supporters regarding our performances this season, for which I can only apologise.

I ask you to keep the faith and continue with your loyal support – we need it more than ever.

I am hoping we can turn things around, starting with Saints this week. It’s always one of the biggest games of the season and one of our toughest encounters.

The past two years have been difficult for us financially. The combined effect of COVID and the reduction in broadcasting revenues has seen us report significant financial losses.

Myself (and others) are committed to supporting the club financially, seeing us through this difficult period and investing in the future.

I knew it was always going to be a transitional year with a completely new coaching set-up, culture change and a different way of working, but I never expected it to be this difficult.

There are many mitigating factors but I don’t want to make any excuses. Some of our performances haven’t been good enough – fact. 

Warrington Guardian:

Warrington Wolves have lost eight of their 13 games in all competitions this season. Picture by SWPix.com

I guess this is the nature of sport – some things are out of your control, especially what happens on the field. Confidence and momentum are big parts of success and we are low on that.

We have two signings in James Harrison and Greg Minikin that have yet to play for us but should be ready early next month and I’m excited to see what they can do.

On a positive note, we have placed a big emphasis in recent years on bringing through our own players through our scholarship and academy programmes and I feel we are now seeing the fruits of this strategy.

Warrington Guardian:

The Warrington Wolves scholarship team have won all four of their games this season. Picture by Bob Brough

The young guys playing in the first team haven’t let us down and we have many more quietly waiting for their opportunity.

Any fans that watch our academy and reserves games will see we have the start of a successful production line of homegrown talent in the making.

It was particularly pleasing to see our academy team beat St Helens last week, who along with Wigan, set the benchmark.

Having eight players selected for the Academy Origin series is another proud moment for our youth set-up.

Recruitment for 2023 is going well despite the market and player availability becoming more difficult both at home and overseas.

We will have a balance of new recruits from the NRL and Super League, contract extensions and promotions from within.

Warrington Guardian:

Canterbury Bulldogs full-back Matt Dufty appears set to join Warrington Wolves next season.

I am sure this will address many of your concerns and criticisms. Announcements will be made very soon.

I will see you at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Thursday night,

Stuart.