Huddersfield Giants - Super League XV

Huddersfield GGIIAANNTTSSSU

PER

SPEC

IAL

16-PAGE PREVIEW TO THE NEW SEASON ... WIN TICKETS – SEE PAGE 6

THE TROPHY

LeagueXVLeagueXV

HUNTERSTTHHEE TTRROOPPHHYYHHUUNNTTEERRSS

DAVY

BROWN

HODGSONNo pressure on mePages - 10-11

Squad’s in great shapePage 2 interview

My pride in GiantsPage 2 interview

HuddersfieldGiants Super League special2

SurvivalHAVE you ever wondered which Giantsplayers are the fittest, fastest or strongest?It’s often been a talking point among fans, helpingto spark the healthiest of debates.But now, thanks to head conditioner Mark‘Bumper’ Andrews, all can be officially revealed.The 31-year-old Australian, who arrived with headcoach Nathan Brown from St George Dragonswhere the former Wests Tigers reserve gradehooker was assistant conditioner, believes theHuddersfield squad as a whole is in pretty goodshape as they prepare for the start of SuperLeague XV.Yet when it comes to the crunch, he admits oneplayer in particular stands out – hooker ShaunLunt.“When you look at this squad train, you see Luntyand you have to wonder if he’s just a geneticfreak,” revealed Andrews.“His fitness levels are incredible, and he seems tolook fresher the further the hard work goes. He’dhold his own in any squad, whether that’s here inEngland or in the Australian NRL, and I know hisfitness levels would be a match for any sportsman.“But while Lunty is the leading light, there areothers who are not that far behind in terms oftheir general fitness.“Keith Mason, Michael Lawrence, Scott Grix andLuke Robinson are all natural athletes, and theirability to change speed under fatigue isoutstanding.“At the same time, I feel the likes of Kevin Brownand Andy Raleigh also deserve to be mentioned.They’re not the naturally fittest, but through theirhard work and the intensity at which they dothings, they’ve come a very long way and are rightup there now in terms of their fitness within thegroup.“They have to be two of the hardest workers in thesquad, and they are reaping the rewards of that.

“But the one bloke who’s really impressed everybody isDave Hodgson.“He came off major knee surgery about 18 months agoand it usually takes that time for a player to get back totheir best and to adapt to the different things going onin the knee.“As a result, we’re seeing a far strong and quickerHodgy, and that’s going to be great to see.“Finally, just a quick mention as to which player is thebest in terms of endurance work, more specifically runsof around 3,000m.“Because of the nature of our sport, we don’t do muchstraight-line endurance work, but when we do oneplayer automatically springs to mind – Shaun Lunt!“As I’ve said, he’s a naturally fit kid and has a verygood base.“But while we bang on about how this fitness is anatural gift, it’s still only right to give him the credit forhow hard he still works in every training session and isa good professional.“And that’s something I can say about every member ofthis squad. As head conditioner, I believe that makesmy job the easiest in England.”Andrews has now completed his second pre-season incharge of the squad’s fitness programme, and he is100% confident the Giants will be a fitter side in 2010than they were a year ago.“If they’re not fitter, then I think Nathan Brown shouldsend me back to Australia!” he added.

risk of injury – it would be around the 180kgmark. That’s equivalent to lifting more thantwo men of an average weight.“On the other hand, the strongest players,pound for pound, would have to be LukeRobinson or the young winger Greg Johnson.“These two would also be two of the fastestaround. Greg can motor over a distance, whileLuke’s accleration over a short distance isalways eye-catching.

“The players have put in more work on their intensitylevels and in terms of transition and working on theirskills under fatigue, which we do to help replicate agame situation.“We’re miles ahead on this than we were last year, andhopefully we’ll immediately see the benefits.“Everyone has worked tremendously hard throughoutpre-season and bought into what we’ve been doing.“This really could play an important part in oursuccess this season.”

Larne Patrick and KeithMason. They’re allexceptionally strongblokes.“I guess if they were tobench press to theirmaximum – which issomething we neveractually do because of thepotential danger and the

“When it comes tostrength, if it’s interms of pure weightlifted, then it’sprobably betweenDarrell Griffin,

“But I am confident Brownywon’t have to get me that

plane ticket back home.“Last year we built a base on

the conditioning front and thistime around we’ve expanded on

it.

of theFITTESTWho’s the fastest, strongestGiant? We ask guru Bumper

By CHRIS ROBERTSRugby League [email protected]

Giants can make me evenNO-ONE will be prouder when the Giantsstart Super League XV than chairmanKen Davy.

Having witnessed the highs and lowsof life with Huddersfield during his 15years at the helm, proud Davy admitsthere was nothing to match theachievements of 2009.

A club record third-placed finish in

Super League and a first Challenge Cupfinal appearance at Wembley since 1962made the year extra special.

And the Galpharm chief believes thatwith the signings that have been madeand with all the hard work that has goneon behind the scenes, HuddersfieldGiants will once again be a major forceto be reckoned with.

“After the magnificent achievementsof last year, I can’t wait for the newseason to begin, and I know that’sshared by our supporters,” he said.

“We are once again looking forward toRugby League of the highest order in acompetition that looks too close to call.

“There’s no doubt whatsoever in mymind that this will be the toughest

■ WORKING OUT: MartinAspinwall pumps iron while (topright) Josh Griffin struggles withchin ups as they bid to matchthe likes of Shaun Lunt andKeith Mason

Dave, Vince and the TeamProud supporters ofHuddersfield Giants

24-28 Lower Fitzwilliam Street,Huddersfield HD1 6BE

Tel: 01484 429441Fax: 01484 426268

HuddersfieldGiants Super League special 3

CAN Huddersfield Giants matchthe heroics of last season?That’s the challenge facing head coachNathan Brown.At the end of 2009, the 36-year-oldcould look back on a first season thatsaw the Giants clinch a club bestthird-placed Super League finish anda Challenge Cup final at Wembley.That saw Brown underline hisreputation as a top-quality operator,having become the youngest coach inNRL history when he took over at theSt George Dragons aged 29 in 2003.Those 2009 achievements earnedBrown the Engage Super LeagueCoach of the Year award, while theGiants were named the Engage SuperLeague Club of the Year and captainBrett Hodgson the Engage SuperLeague Man of Steel.But Brown admitted that while hewould have taken that at the start ofthe season, he was still not entirelysatisfied.In the Cup final, his side was beaten25-16 by Warrington Wolves, thenwent on to lose both their play-offgames.Yet that disappointment is sure tomotivate Brown and his Giants.And with a new look squad and arock-solid pre-season, the Galpharmchief has every confidence his playerscan finally experience success.“Last year was really enjoyable, butnow the challenge is to build on that,”he said.“For those who have been involved in

the club for a long time it was good toexperience a top-four finish and aChallenge Cup final at Wembley, andfor the players who have been arounda long time it was great for them, too.“At the same time, for those newer tothe club, like myself, there were a lotof achievements to be proud of.“Obviously, it was disappointing theway the season finished, but therewere still more ups than downs.“But last year was last year, and thekey for us now is to keep onimproving. Last year we were good inboth competitions and, if we can keepplaying as a group and build on ourimprovements, then we can be at leastas good again this year.“Although there have been a numberof disruptions during pre-season, wehave prepared well and we feel we’rein better shape than we were this timelast year.“We’ve also made some very goodsignings, who I know will enhance thequality of the squad.“Lee Gilmour and David Fa’alogohave both played internationally on aregular basis in the back-row, whileScott Grix and Graeme Horne havemade an outstanding impression oneveryone. We’ve also got Brad Drewto come into the equation when hecomes out of rehabilitation followingknee surgery, and he’ll be another bigplayer for us.

“We’ve also got more depth in thissquad, and that should prove vaulable.“One of the problems towards the endof last season was that injuries beganto take their toll and we were runningout of numbers. It hit us hard.“That’s something we hope to avoidthis year, and we’re confident that’ll bethe case.”But while the Giants will take a greatdeal of confidence into the newcampaign on the back of last year’sachievements, Brown knows thatcould potentially prove their downfall.With the rest of Super League nowsitting up and taking note ofHuddersfield’s threat, Brown knowshis rival clubs will not be taking hisside for granted.“I’m sure teams are a bit more waryof where the Giants are and whatwe’re doing, and that means they’ll allbe prepared for us,” added Brown.“And there are certainly a lot of sidesout there who are going to bechallenging us.“Leeds and St Helens are expected tofinish top once again, then Wiganhave usually challenged them. Isuppose Warrington, Hull andBradford have all recruited heavilyand a lot of teams are tipping them,but we are hoping we’ll do really welland shouldn’t be underestimated.“A lot of people think we probablycan’t finish where we did last year, butthat can work in our favour and we’redetermined to surprise them again!”

By CHRIS ROBERTS RL [email protected]

Can we do it again?

prouder still says Davycompetition in the history of SuperLeague with many twists and turnsalong the way.

“But with the squad we’veassembled and under the chargeof head coach Nathan Brown wecan continue to make Giantstrides.

“In new signings Lee Gilmour,

David Fa’alogo, Brad Drew, KyleWood, Scott Grix, and GraemeHorne we have made some qualityadditions and I know they willsoon become popular figures inthe famous claret and gold.

“This year we have our largestsquad of full-time professionals,with many younger players

pushing hard for starting spots,which can only bode well for ourfuture.

“Last year was absolutelyfantastic and, with the continuedsupport of our magnificent fans,we are all sure we can make 2010even more successful. These arevery exciting times.”

Squad in better shapethis season says Nathan

Fridge/freezerfeatures:• 160/106 litres

(5.6/5.7cuft) capacity• Three glass shelves• Two salad bins• White

BOSCH KGV28V01GBCLASSIXXFRIDGE

FREEZER

Frank Platt Electrical LtdPeople Prefer Platts

Est 1928

CLASSIXX WASHING MACHINEBOSCH WAE24164GB

Washingfeatures:• 1200rpm

spin speed• Express

wash option• Reduced

ironing cycle• 6kg capacity

load

£349.99£349.99

EXXCEL UNDER COUNTERLARDER

BOSCH KTR15V22GB

Larderfeatures:• 150 litres

(5.3 cuft)capacity

• 3 glassshelves

• 1 salad bin• Clip-on

bottle rack

£279.99£279.99

CLASSIXX SENSORCONDENSOR TUMBLE DRYER

BOSCH WTE84104GB

Dryerfeatures:• 3 drying

levels• Anti-crease

cycle• Freshen-up

programme• 6kg capacity

load

£379.99£379.99

£329.99£329.99

Frank Platt Electrical LtdVictoria Street, Holmfirth HD9 7DETel: 01484 682036Branch also at Shrewsbury Road,Penistone S36 6DYTel: 01226 762228

Free delivery and installation to existing points Free delivery and installation to existing points

Free delivery and installation to existing points Free delivery and installation to existing points

FREE 2 YEAR GUARANTEE (subject to registration)

BACK FROM

PAUL WHATUIRA has expressedhis thanks for all the support hehas received to help him getthrough such a difficult time in hislife.

As details began to emerge of thebizarre events surrounding hisadmission to a secure mentalhealth unit in Bradford, the rugbyleague public rallied round to offertheir support to one of the Giants’most popular and likeable players.

And Whatuira has admitted thatsupport played a key part in hisrecovery.

“To be honest, I didn’t think I hadthat much support out there,” hesaid.

“My teammates and coachingstaff have obviously been rightbehind me, which has been atremendous help, but the fans havealso been incredible.

“I received lots of well-wishes incards from them as well as othermessages of support, and for that Ican’t thank them enough.

“It really has been a massivehelp, not just for me, but also formy fiance Vanessa.

“It must have been really toughfor her while I’ve been ill,particularly as she’s pregnant.

“But she has been my rock.Fortunately she is one tough ladyand, even though she has beenthrough so much, she has alwaysbeen so supportive.”

‘Supportof fansmade aworld ofdifference’


WHEN Paul Whatuira powered over theline for a classic centre’s try in lastweek’s pre-season win at CastlefordTigers it was the moment everyoneknew the New Zealander was really onthe way back from illness.Just a few months earlier, the 28-year-old’slife hung by a thread.In the early hours of October 13, thehighly-popular Huddersfield player, whohad been capped 16 times by NewZealand, was taken to a secure mentalhealth unit after unprovoked attacks ontwo men.It came as a massive shock to everyonewho knew the highly likeable Whatuira.However, it soon became clear that one ofthe Giants’ favourite sons – who isaffectionately known as ‘Fatz’ – was veryseriously ill.The fact the police issued a statementthree weeks later saying: “The CrownProsecution Service has advised us not totake any further action” didn’t come as asurprise to anyone.But at that stage, it was Whatuira’s healthrather than any potential legalimplications that were of the mostconcern.Fortunately, as the days and weeks wentby, Whatuira’s health began to improve, somuch so that he was able to report backfor pre-season training in mid-November.Although his fitness wasn’t as good as hewould have wished – which was prettyobvious given the circumstances – theformer Wests Tigers star in the AustralianNRL was quickly getting into his stride.By Christmas, he was back to his old self

and, early in the New Year, his fianceVanessa gave birth to their first child,daughter Gabrielle Kaea Whatuira.It then emerged his high-profilebreakdown was sparked by memories ofabuse he suffered as a child, and it wasthat which pushed him to the brink ofsuicide.That admission has brought full closurefor Whatuira, who is now lookingpositively to the future, both in his privatelife and in his rugby league career.“I now feel I’ve come through it all andcan see the light at the end of the tunnel,”he revealed.“Where I was a few months ago wasn’t agood place to be.“I was sick, I was very ill. As I said, itwasn’t a good time in my life, but I believeI’m now back on my feet and things arestarting to look good again.“It was great to be given the all-clear tocarry on with my career just beforeChristmas, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyedthe pre-season training and I’m nowhoping for a big season this year.“It has obviously got off to a wonderfulstart with the birth of my daughter. We’reall over the moon about that, and I feel fitand healthy as the season approaches,which is something that was reflected inthe way we played at Castleford lastweek.”

Whatuira was well aware there would be afair amount of attention focused on himthat night because of what had happenedin the previous few months.But he emerged unscathed and that hasadded to his sense of excitement ahead ofthe big kick-off.“I was a bit nervous before I went on,”added Whatuira, who came on as asubstitute against the Tigers.“But you’re always a bit nervous goinginto the first game anyway, because it’s thefirst time you’ve had the chance to testyourself out.“Fortunately, it went well and it showedI’ve fully recovered from what happenedlast year. Getting the try was obviously afantastic feeling.“It’s now just a case of getting amongst iton the field and playing my part for theteam. I’m determined to work hard tohelp bring even more success to the club,which I believe we can.“Last season was great, and it’s going totake something special to reach theChallenge Cup final again and finish thirdin Super League, but that’s what we’ve gotto strive to do.“And with the signings we’ve made, we’llcertainly put ourselves in a strongposition.“All the new players have fitted in welland are making positive contributions,and it’s great to be joined by another NewZealand international in David Fa’alogo.“He’s a big lad and is a fairly intimidatingplayer, which is probably something weneed. He’ll offer us a lot.”

■ SETTLED: Paul and hispartner Vanessa Almondwith their daughterGabrielle PW280110Afatz-03.jpg

Fit-again Fatz puts nightmarebehind him


THE BRINKHuddersfieldGiants Super League special 5

take than the injury itself. Iknow how desperate the boyswere to make a big impact inthe play-offs, but it justdidn’t happen, and itdefinitely took some of thegloss of our season.“But, at the same time, Iknow how hungrythat’s made everyoneahead of nextseason.“Having failed towin a play-off gamethis year, we’re alldetermined to changeall that in 2010, andwith the quality ofsignings we’ve made we allknow that’s something we can do.“And after not being there for the boys atthe end of last season, I’m determined tomake up for it this season.”

After the game ... time to get really competitiveRUGBY League playersare a competitive bunch– whatever the pursuit.

Giving less than 100%isn’t an option and it’sno different during theirspare time.

For many Giants,X-box 360 andPlaystations help fill inthe off-field hours.

Giants stand-offKevin Brown said:“When you’ve had a

hard day’s training andyour body’s aching, thelast thing you want to dois be involved insomething else that’sphysical.

“But with being sucha competitive bunch,we’re still keen tocompete and there’s nobetter way of doing thatthan by going on-line.”

So what are the infavour games?

“Right now, there’s abit of a FIFA10 Clubgoing,” added theformer Wigan back.

“But there are acouple of boysdominating, which hastaken some of the glossoff it.

“Jermaine McGillvary,in particular, is right upthere. I don’t think hecan stop!

“I’m still a

big fan of Call of Duty. Iobviously love thegame, but I also enjoy itbecause it’s the chanceto catch up with some ofour old teammates.

“Chris Thorman,Stuart Jones, SteveSnitch and Paul Smithstill go online.

“It really is a goodway of keeping in touch,and it’s even better ifyou can beat them!”

THERE’S a widely-held belief insport that the ability of someplayers isn’t appreciated untilthey’re missing.So step forward Kevin Brown!Huddersfield’s 25-year-old formerWigan half-back has been a regularfor the past two-and-a-half seasons,becoming one of the club’s mostconsistent performers.His finest day was probably lastseason’s Challenge Cup semi-finaltriumph over St Helens.Unfortunately, Brown’s nextChallenge Cup memory couldn’t havebeen in starker contrast as he sufferedknee ligament damage in the first halfof the Wembley final againstWarrington Wolves.It ended his season and also signalleda downturn in the Giants’ form in thefinal weeks of season. Without Brownpulling the half-back strings, the sidesuffered.Not that was any consolation toBrown. But it made him determinedto return to action stronger than ever.

“What happened at Wembley issomething I’m going to have to livewith throughout my career. I felt as ifall my dreams were shattered thatday,” reflected Brown.“But the key is not to dwell on thatand start to look forward, because Iknow the future does look verybright, both for me and for theGiants.“When I first did the injury I justdidn’t know how bad it was. I’d neversuffered anything like it before.“Fortunately, when I had the scans,the damage wasn’t anywhere near asbad as it could have been. As a result,I was able to start running after arelatively short time and whenpre-season training started inNovember I felt fully fit.“And I’ve continued to work hardever since, and I believe it’s paid off.“That was firmly put to the test in thepre-season game at Castleford Tigers

last week when I felt no twinges in myknee whatsoever.“I always felt that would be the case,because since Christmas I’ve beendoing all the tackling, wrestling andfitness sessions that the rest of theboys have been doing, so I knew theknee would survive, which it did.“So now it’s a case of getting backonto the field for a competitive gamefor the first time in what has been avery long – and very tough – fivemonths.“When you’re receiving treatment youspend a fair amount of time from therest of the boys, which can be tough.Then there were the games to have tosit through.“I’ve never been a good watcher at thebest of times, but having to sitthrough our final games of the seasonwas really tough to take.“To be honest, the way we struggledin the play-off games was harder to

butnotBROWN OUT

By CHRIS ROBERTSSports [email protected] Kev: Wembley agony’s behind me

■ FIT ASEVER:Kevin Brownhas lookedsharp in preseason


10 PAIRS OF GIANTS TICKETS TO BE WONGiants V Warrington, Sunday 28th February 2010, 3pm

To celebrate the start of the new rugby season, the Examinerhave teamed up with the

Huddersfield Giants. We’re offering 10 lucky readers the chanceto win a pair of tickets to

the Giants next home match against Warrington at the GalpharmStadium.Follow the Huddersfield Giants’ season in theHuddersfield Daily Examiner and

online at www.examiner.co.uk

Terms and conditions: 1. Lines will be open from 6am Friday 5th February until 12 midnight Sunday 7th February 2010. 2. BT landline calls cost 25p each. Calls from other landline operators/mobiles/payphones may vary. Text entriescost 25p each plus standard network rate. 3. Unlimited number of entries per person however only one winner permitted per household. 4. 10 winners will be selected at random when lines close from all correct entries received. 5. Prizesare not transferable, the winners must be able to attend the game on Sunday 28th February 2010, no cash alternatives available. 6. Standard Trinity Mirror Rules apply, available on request or viewed at www.examiner.co.uk/rules. ServiceProvider: Eckoh UK Ltd, PO Box 306, HP3 9FT. Tel: 01442 450707. 7. Winners must agree to publicity reasonably requested by Trinity Mirror Huddersfield.

HOW TO ENTERAnswer this question – Who is theExaminer’s chief Giants’ reporter?

A) Chris RobertsB) Chris SimonsC) Chris Terrys

Call 0901 229 2205 and tell us youranswer, name, address and phone number.Or text HDECOMP followed by a spacethen your answer, name, address andphone number and send to 84080Lines close at midnight Sunday 7th February.Winners will be telephone by Wednesday 10thFebruary 2010

Happy Gilmour

LEE GILMOUR has been awinner throughout his career.

During 13 years at the top , the31-year-old former Wigan, Bradfordand St Helens back-row forwardhas tasted Super League GrandFinal success and picked up fourChallenge Cup winners’ medals,and played 15 times for GreatBritain.

Such a strong pedigree madethe 6ft 2in, 15st 8lb forward one ofthe game’s hottest properties whenSuper League clubs were alertedto his availability last summer,despite the fact St Helens coachMick Potter ended the seasonnaming him his ‘Player of the Year’.

The Giants stepped in to bring awinning mentality to the club, butGilmour doesn’t feel that puts himunder any extra pressure.

“I’m obviously aware one of thereasons Huddersfield signed mewas because I’ve been associatedwith successful sides and I canhopefully bring a winning mentalitywith me,” said Gilmour, who beganhis Super League career withWigan in 1997.

“But I don’t see that as puttingextra pressure on me.

“I’m just one player in a big andvery talented squad. My aim is todo my bit for the club, and oursuccess will depend on everyonepulling together rather than whatwe do as individuals.

“Obviously, if my influence canhelp – whether that’s during agame or at training – it would be abonus.

“But our success will comethrough the talent we’ve gotthroughout the squad, and Igenuinely see no reason at all whythis group can’t bring somesilverware to Huddersfield.

“When I first agreed to join theGiants last summer, I felt I wouldbe joining a club that was capableof winning things, and that’s abelief that’s been reinforced since Iarrived here for the start ofpre-season training.

“I find all this very exciting.“The clubs I’ve played for in the

past (Wigan, Bradford and StHelens) were all very wellestablished when I joined them.They were already winningsilverware, but now I’m joining aclub that’s on the rise, and looks tobe on the verge of really breakinginto the big time.

“Having now had a fullpre-season with the Giants, I’veseen nothing at all to change thatview, and to play a part in trying tomake that happen is very exciting.”

‘This isa clubset forsuccess’

LEE GILMOUR believes themove ‘home’ has helped freshenhim up for the season ahead.The 31-year-old former Great Britainback-row forward joined the Giantson a two-year-deal at the end of theseason to bring the curtain down ona glittering career at St Helens.Gilmour admits it was a real wrenchto leave the club where he hadachieved so many honours during aglorious six-year spell.But having completed his firstpre-season with the Giants, theproud Yorkshireman knows he’smade the right choice – both on andoff the field.With Gilmour living in HangingHeaton – located between Dewsburyand Batley – the Galpharm is on hisdoorstep, which has enabled him tospend far more time with his family.As a result, he feels a happier andhealthier man.“When it became clear there wouldbe no new deal at Saints, I obviouslystarted looking around for a newclub,” he said.“And it didn’t take long before Iknew Huddersfield was the onlyplace I wanted to be. Everythingabout it just seemed so right, both on

and off the field.“Obviously, the way the side iscompeting at the moment was a bigconsideration. Finishing third inSuper League and reaching theChallenge Cup speaks for itself.“But there’s far more to coming herethan that.“I do feel this move is a bit likecoming ‘home’, because this is theclub that’s so close to where I live.“It was a bit of a drag having todrive over to St Helens almost everyday. To get to training for 10.00am ,I had to set off at 7.30, then drivehome, quite often on the back of areally tough session.“But now it takes me about 15minutes to get to training and thenthe same time to get back home atthe end of the day.“As a result, I do feel a lot fresher,and in better shape, too.“Spending around three hours a dayin the car getting to St Helens andback didn’t exactly help too much interms of muscle tightness and doingyour back much good.

“But now I can spend that sort oftime recuperating and seeing thephysio to get rid of any niggles Imight have. I find that fantastic.”But Gilmour also feels spendingmore time with his family is doinghim a power of good.“My daughter, Ella, is just one andtravelling to St Helens meant I wasn’table to see her as much as I wouldhave liked,” he added.“Moving to Huddersfield haschanged all that. I’m now spendingfar more time with her and seeingher grow up, which has made me feela great deal happier.“It also means I can see the rest ofthe family, as well, which issomething that’s very important.“As much as we all love our rugby, itis good to turn your attentions toothers things once in a while, andseeing more of the family is a way ofdoing that.“But, having said all that, the rest ofthe family are all rugby league mad,and many of the conversations areobviously about the game – and nowthe Giants.“Although we all live so close toHuddersfield, the family haven’treally followed the Giants in the

past. They support the team I’mplaying for, it’s as simple as that.“But now it’ll be HuddersfieldGiants all the way, which I supposewill please my dad, Roger, inparticular.“He works in Bradley and a coupleof his friends there are big Giantsfans, so they’ll now have somethingmore in common. They certainlyshouldn’t be falling out about therugby league any more!”Before finally putting pen to paper,Gilmour also spoke to his neighbourand former Saints teammate KeithMason, and he admits they’vebecome closer friends because of themove.“I’ve known Keith for a while and Iknow how much he loves it at theclub. That was another factor indeciding the move to the Giants wasthe right one for me,” he continued.“We’ve both grown up around theDewsbury area and still live there,which means we’ve been able toshare lifts to training.“That should have meant sharing thepetrol bills, but I don’t think it’ssomething that’s come naturally toKeith, and probably never will!”


Move to Galpharm ishome from homefor big Lee

■ FAREWELL: Gilmourand Sean Long’s last gameat Knowsley Road, typicallya win against Wigan


Huddersfield

■ HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS 2010: Back row, from left (squad number in brackets): Kyle Wood (26), Gregg McNally (28), Alex Brown (29), Elliot Hodgson (31), Larne Patrick (23), Martin Aspinwnumber). Middle: Paul Cook (Reserve Team coach), Mark Andrews (head conditioner), Paul Anderson (assistant coach), Keith Mason (10), Stephen Wild (13), Leroy Cudjoe (2), Andy Raleigh (15), EorManager), Nathan Mill (Physio), Barry Wilkinson (kitman). Front: Brad Drew (18), Jamahl Lolesi (3), Shaun Lunt (9), David Hodgson (5), Brett Hodgson (1), Nathan Brown (head coach), Luke R

FEBRUARYFri 5 Bradford Bulls (H) 8.00pmFri 12 Hull FC (A) 8.00pmSun 21 Hull KR (A) 3.00pmSun 28 Warrington (H) 3.00pm

MARCHSat 6 Wakefield (A) 6.00pmSun 14 Leeds (H) 3.00pmSat 20 Harlequins (A) 6.00pmSun 28 St Helens (H) 3.00pm

APRILFri 2nd Catalans (H) 7.00pmMon 5 Salford (A) 3.00pmFri 9 Castleford (H) 8.00pm17-18 Carnegie ChallengeCup 4 RoundSat 24 Crusaders (A) 6.00pm

MAY2 Wigan, Magic weekend8-9 Carnegie Challenge Cup5 RoundSun 16 Wigan (H) 3.00pmSun 23 Warrington (A) 3.00pm29-30 Challenge Cup Q-F

Fixtures 2010


inwall (22), Adam Walker (30), Danny Kirmond (17), Josh Griffin (24), Jacob Fairbank (32), Jamie Cording (no number), Jermaine McGillvary (27), Keal Carlile (25), Greg Johnson (noaleigh (15), Eorl Crabtree (8), Darrell Griffin (16), Michael Lawrence (19), Lee Gilmour (11), David Fa’alogo (12), Graeme Horne (33), Greg Brown (conditioner), Pete Riding (Player Performance

e Robinson (7), Kevin Brown (6), Paul Whatuira (4), David Faiumu (20), Scott Grix (21)

JUNESun 6 Bradford (A) 3.00pmFri 11 St Helens (A) 8.00pmSun 20 Hull FC (H) 3.00pmSun 27 Hull KR (H) 3.00pm

JULYSun 4 Castleford (A) 3.30pmSun 11 Crusaders (H) 3.00pmFri 16 Leeds (A) 8.00pmSun 25 Harlequins (H) 3.00pm

AUGUSTSun 1 Wakefield (H) 3.00pm7-8 Carnegie ChallengeCup Semi-FinalFri 13 Wigan (A) 8.00pmSun 22 Salford (H) 3.00pmSat 28 Challenge Cup Final

SEPTEMBERSat 4 Catalans (A) TBC

GIANTSHuddersfieldGiants Super League special 9

AS the new Man of Steel, Brett Hodg-son can expect to be singled out forsome extra ‘attention’ from theopposition in Super League XV.But will this worry the inspirationalGiants’ captain?You must be joking!Instead, it will be just the motivationthe 31-year-old Australian needs to leadthe club to what he hopes will be aneven more successful year.Huddersfield’s goalkicking full-backknows that won’t be easy after guidinghis side to last season’s Challenge Cupfinal at Wembley, where they werebeaten by Warrington, and a clubrecord third-placed Super League finish.But Hodgson is determined to doeverything he can to make sure 2010 iseven better, and he is relishing theopportunity to lead the Giants intobattle as the Engage Super League Manof Steel.“Everyone knows how much of anhonour it was for me to win the award.It’s the pinnacle of my career as anindividual,” said Hodgson, who has inthe past been named the best full-backin the Australian NRL and won aGrand Final Down Under with WestsTigers.“I was absolutely delighted to havemade it into the Super League Dream(as the full-back), so to win the Man ofSteel was truly amazing, particularly asit’s an award voted on by your fellowprofessionals.“Since winning the award I have beenasked a number of times if I feel it’s putadded pressure on me to perform.“But I don’t see it that way.“I’ve always had a lot of pride inmy own ability. I make sure Iplay every game the best I can,as much for the club as formyself, so the pressure comesfrom within, regardless ofwhat happens on theoutside."It wouldn’t matterwhether I was the Man ofSteel or not, I want tomake sure this season isthe best I’ve had, andwith the players aroundme I believe that can bethe case.“As I said as soon as Ipicked up the award,there’s no way I wouldhave done it if it hadn’tbeen for the work of myteammates around me.They deserved so much ofthe credit for me winningthis.“And I also don’t think it’s acase of me being more of a‘marked man’ in Super Leaguebecause I’m now the Man ofSteel.“Once again, I know my teammatesaround me will make sure nothingchanges this season because I can relyon them all to do their jobs superblywell.“That was the key for us last year, andwill be the key for us this.”Hodgon’s optimism is based on asecond pre-season under head coachNathan Brown and some close-seasonrecruitment that includes St Helenssecond rower Lee Gilmour and NewZealand international forward DavidFa’alogo.“The depth in the squad has definitelyimproved,” he said. “The signings the

clubhave made are top quality.“Lee Gilmour has plenty of experience ofpicking up silverware and he brings aquality to our squad which hasn’t beenthere while David Fa’alogo is just a superbathlete who’s going to be strong for us withand without the ball.“Across the board we’re a lot stronger. Welook at where we were this time last yearand having a year-and-a-half under a

different coaching regime has definitely helda lot of the players in good stead.“There is no doubt we were disappointedtowards the end of last season when we letourselves down in key areas.“If we’re good enough to get to that stage ofthe competition again I guess we’ll addresscertain issues.”Hodgson will be 32 a week into the newseason but at this stage he hasn’t ruled outextending his stay beyond the two-yearcontract that expires in November.“It’s always in the back of my mind,” hesaid. “I still feel I’ve plenty to offer in thecompetition.“Last year was one of my most enjoyableseasons for a long, long time. I had a lot offun and, when you’re having fun on the field,it tends to lead to more better qualityfootball.“My family and myself are having areal ball here.”

By CHRIS ROBERTSRugby League [email protected] ‘NO EXTRA

PRESSUREON ME’

■ OFF AND RUNNING: Man of Steel Hodgson hasstarted this season in similar high quality form

■ TRIPLE WINNER:Ellery Hanley

says 2009 Man of SteelBRETTHODGSON


A NEW year and a new Super League season.But some of the same old familiar faces keep on

returning to the Galpharm Stadium.Throughout Super League, Huddersfield Giants

‘old boys’ are continuing to ply their trade, whether it’sfrom the comfort of the stands as a coach or out onthe competitive field.

And once again many will be planning aHuddersfield re-union in Super League XV, kicking-offwith Bradford Bulls in round one.

For starters, head coach Steve McNamaraneeds little introduction to Giants fans.

McNamara led Huddersfield back into SuperLeague in 2002 as the captain of the Giants side thatdefeated Leigh Centurions 38-16 in the NFP GrandFinal at Widnes.

The goaklcking loose-forward retired as a player –at the Giants – at the end of the 2003 before joiningthe coaching staff at the Bulls.

McNamara became head coach midway through2006 and his assistant coach is another formerHuddersfield favourite, Lee St Hilaire.

The Huddersfield-born hooker spent most of hisplaying career with his hometown club and was aformer No2 to ex-Giants head coach Jon Sharpbefore following directly in McNamara’s foosteps toOdsal.

And these two are in charge of a Bulls squadbursting with players who have tasted life at theGalpharm.

Leading the way is centre Chris Nero – amember of the Giants side beaten by St Helens in the2006 Challenge Cup final at Twickenham – while alsoon Bradford’s books are former Giants Academywinger Rikki Sheriffe and prop DannySculthorpe, who spent the second half on loan atthe Galpharm from Wakefield, as well asex-Newsome Panthers Junior and star GiantsScholarship pupil Jason Crookes.

There are even more Huddersfield ‘old boys’ overat Castleford Tigers, where a very formidable packcould be formed.

Prop Paul Jackson, hooker andcaptain Ryan Hudson , right, andback-row forwards Stuart Jones,Steve Snitch and Ryan Claytonwill all be key players for the Tigers in2010, along with popularex-Huddersfield centre James Evans.

Next up, alphabetically on theSuper League club list, are CatalansDragons.

Like with virtually all other top-flightclubs, none of their playing staff havesampled the delights of the WestYorkshire town, but it’s no big secretthat former Giants chief Jon Sharptried to sign the French club’s starmen, Clint Greenshields andAdam Mogg, before the Australian duo opted for alife in the South of France instead.

And talking of Sharp, he’s now reunited with headcoach Brian Noble at new Welsh Super Leagueclub Crusaders.

While at the Giants, Sharp was, of course, the No2to Noble in the Great Britain set-up, and they are nowplaying the same roles in Wrexham after Sharp lefthis job as Hull FC football manager at the end of lastseason.

Another old Giants assistant coach also pops up atHarlequins in the considerable shape of ex-GreatBritain prop Brian McDermott.

He cut his coaching teeth under Tony Smith atHuddersfield in 2003, and then followed his boss toLeeds a year later before taking charge of theLondon-based club in 2006.

And under his command this season will beanother front-rower, Oliver Wilkes, who playedSuper League in the claret and gold in 2001.

With the departure of former Giantscaptain Chris Thorman toCo-operative club York City Knights atthe end of last season, there are nolonger any player links with Hull FC.

But there will still be considerableinterest in the meeting of the twoclubs when new Giants signingGraeme Horne – who spent 10years with the black and whites – willline up against brother Richard for thevery first time.

It’s also a similar picture across thecity, where an ex-Giants contingent isno more.

Last season, Stanley Gene andNick Fozzard were bobbing alongwith the Robins, but with the duo moving on to Halifaxand St Helens respectively, New Craven Park isbarren territory.

That can also be said of Headingley, the home ofchampions Leeds Rhinos.

Having said that, Keith Senior , pictured, is nostranger to the town – after all it’s where he was bornand raised – and he’s still the coach at top

Huddersfield amateur team St Joseph’s, while major bigNew Zealand signing Greg Eastwood’s dad, Dale,hails from Meltham.

As mentioned before, highly-popular prop NickFozzard, who was in the Giants side that beat Hull18-0 in the Divisional Premiership final at Old Trafford in1997 to help secure the club’s promotion to Super

League for the first time, is now back at StHelens following his move from Hull KR.

And he will, of course, be joined in thepack at Knowlsey Road by hooker ScottMoore after his season-long loan atHuddersfield where he played in theChallenge Cup final at Wembley and wasnamed in the Super League Dream Team.

It’s now a completely blank canvas atSalford after Robbie Paul left theWillows for Leigh at the end of lastseason, but there remains a healthy linkat Wakefield, led off by head coach JohnKear.

He was, of course, the man who tookcharge at Huddersfield in the wake of the

ill-fated merger with Sheffield Eagles in 2000, a job thatwould have got the better of many a coach at the time.

Since then, however, he has enjoyed Challenge Cupsuccess with Hull and former Wakefield into a strong,no-nonsense side who this season will include in theirranks a trio of ex-Giants in centre Sean Gleeson,winger Luke George – who has shot to fame atTrinity after starring in Huddersfield’s Academy team –and prop Michael Korkidas, who spent the first halfof last season at the Galpharm before returning to hisfirst English club.

At Warrington Wolves, their head coach is someoneelse who needs little introduction.

Tony Smith obviously shot to fame during his threeyears at the Huddersfield coaching helm, where hefinally helped to establish the Giants as a creditableSuper League force.

He then went on to savour Grand Final success withLeeds before taking over as the national coach.

But Smith missed the day-to-day life as a club coachand accepted the challenge to try and get stuttering

Warrington back on track.This he has done in spectacular

fashion, culminating in the Wolves’Challenge Cup final victory over theGiants at Wembley last August when, byhis side, was assistant coach RichardMarshall, who had been a prop forwardunder Smith at Huddersfield in 2001.

Last but by no means least it’s Wigan,where Phil Veivers – who like Fozzardwas in the triumphant Giants’ Old Traffordteam of 1997 – is the assistant coach.

For a while in 1998 he had temporaryfull charge of Huddersfield’s SuperLeague squad following the departure ofGarry Schofield, and he has sincegone on to be the No2 at both Bradford

and now Wigan.In fact, his son Josh is now in the senior Warriors

squad, along with former Giants centre Martin Gleesonand second-rower Lee Mossop, who had asuccessful loan spell with Huddersfield halfway throughlast season.

1977 Hooker David Ward (Leeds).1978 Prop George Nicholls (St Helens).1979 L-forward Doug Laughton (Widnes).1980 F-back George Fairbairn (Wigan).1981 Scrum-half Ken Kelly (Warrington).1982 2nd-rower Mick Morgan (Carlisle).1983 S-half Allan Agar (Featherstone).1984 Full-back Joe Lydon (Wi dnes).1985 L-forward Ellery Hanley (Bradford N).1986 Prop Gavin Miller (Hull KR).1987 L-forward Ellery Hanley (Wigan).1988 Winger Martin Offiah (Widnes).1989 L-forward Ellery Hanley (Wigan).1990 Stand-off Shaun Edwards (Wigan).1991 Stand-off Garry Schofield (Leeds).1992 Centre Dean Bell (Wigan).1993 Prop Andy Platt (Wigan).1994 Centre Jonathan Davies (Warrington).

1995 Second-rower Denis Betts (Wigan).1996 L-forward Andrew Farrell (Wigan).1997 Hooker James Lowes (Bradford).1998 Stand-off Iestyn Harris (Leeds).1999 L-forward Adrian Vowles (Castleford).2000 Scrum-half Sean Long (St Helens).2001 S-off Paul Sculthorpe (St Helens).2002 L-forward Paul Sculthorpe (St Helens).2003 2nd-rower Jamie Peacock (Bradford).2004 L-forward Andrew Farrell (Wigan).2005 Centre Jamie Lyon (St Helens).2006 Full-back Paul Wellens (St Helens).2007 Hooker James Roby (St Helens).2008 Prop James Graham (St Helens).2009 Full-back Brett Hodgson(Huddersfield Giants).

MenofSteel

A Gianttheme toalmosteverysquad


EORL CRABTREE will start SuperLeague XV with the rugby league worldat his feet.

At 6ft 7ins, the Giants prop is able tolook down on all of his rivals. As thetallest man in Super League that goeswithout saying.

Yet even though the 27-year-old’sstature within the game is so great, he’sstill not scaled all of the sport’s loftyheights.

Admittedly, he has now fulfilled hisdream of playing for England in a fullTest against the might of Australia andNew Zealand.

He’s also played for the Giants inChallenge Cup finals at Wembley andTwickenham, as well as being a massiveinfluence in helping his hometown clubsecure a highest Super League finish ofthird last season.

But, unfortunately, the Crabtree trophycabinet remains an underused item offurniture.

Apart from a NFP Grand Final winnersmedal and Buddies Cup final winnersmedal dating back to 2002 – and now thecherished England caps from lastautumn’s Four Nations tournament, ofcourse! – the cupboard is bare.

It’s something that doesn’t sitcomfortably with the formerHuddersfield YMCA and UnderbankRangers junior.

But he is determined to doeverything within his power tochange all that and finally bring amajor piece of silverware back toHuddersfield – particularly as it’s histestimonial season to mark 10 yearswith his hometown club.

“It’s amazing how far this clubhas advanced in the time I’ve beenhere,” reflected Crabtree.

“When I first signed for the clubwe were stuck at the foot of theSuper League table and then endedup being relegated. It wasn’t exactlywhat I’d hoped!

“But going down seemed to be thebest thing that could have happened tothe club.

“We were promoted in our firstseason (2002), and since then we’ve justgot stronger and stronger, and we’renow very firmly established in SuperLeague.

“We’re now reaching major finals andregularly challenging for a place in theplay-offs, while our profile is also risingall the time.

“Not too long ago,none of us

(the Giants players) would have beenrecognised around town, but now we’rebeing stopped all the time forautographs and pictures and,personally, I absolutely love it.

“But the one thing that we still haven’tdone is brought some silverware backto the town, which is something I don’twant to carry on for much longer.

“I suppose it would be nice to winsomething this year because it’s mytestimonial year. But, to be honest, it

would be nice to win something fullstop!

“A win for a club like thisis long overdue.”

Crabtree admits he

can’t wait for the new season to getunder way, given his performances forEngland during the Four Nations.

He proved a real handful for theAustralians and Kiwis, and feels that’sadded to his confidence ahead of thebig kick-off.

“Getting the chance to test myself outagainst Australia and New Zealand issomething I’ve being trying to do forquite a long time and I’ve finally had thechance,” he added.

“Fortunately, I was more than happywith the way I played and that’sdefinitely given me a lot of confidencegoing into the new season.

“I intend to use the experience I’velearned from playing against the Kiwisand Australians to help me keepprogressing, and hopefully the teamprogressing as well.

“At the end of the year, there’s theFour Nations in Australia, and I’d love tobe on the plane for that.

“But first of all I’ve got to make sure Iput the performances in forHuddersfield and play at my top levelthe best I can.

“To be honest, I think there will be afew Huddersfield lads knocking on thedoor for England selection at the end ofthe year, and it would be great if therewere a few of us making the trip.

“But, as I said, the priority is trying tobuild on what was a fantastic lastseason and finally go and winsomething.

“We all know it’s going to be anothertough season, but we’ve prepared reallywell. We’re trying to aspire to be thebest club in Super League and to dothat we’ve got to keep working hard andkeep getting better and better”.

Eorl’s kingdom

EORL CRABTREE has made it clear hisflowing locks are ‘hair’ to stay!

The 27-year-old prop’s uniqueappearance makes him an unmistakablefigure but, as the England forwarddiscovered last season, the sight of aponytail can prove irresistible to defenders.

During last season’s clash with the Bulls

at the Galpharm Stadium in August,Bradford winger Semi Tadulala committedthe ‘crime’ of tugging on big Eorl’s luxuriantlocks.

the Bull won 28-18 but Tadulala wasfined for ‘conduct contrary to the spirit ofthe game.’

But did the incident make Crabtree

consider changing his style.“You must be joking!” he said. “This is

my trademark and it’s here to stay. I like thestyle, and I’ve had it for a number of yearsnow.

“Yes, I do run the risk of my hair beingpulled, but that doesn’t happen as often asyou might think, because players getpenalised for doing it.”

True to hishis roots ■ SHORN:

Eorl at 17

Huddersfield’s favourite son has been therethrough thick and thin. Now he wants silverware


NEW recruit Scott Grix is champing at thebit for a place in the Giants starting line-upagainst Bradford tonight and that could bemusic to coach Nathan Brown’s ears – inmore ways than one!For the 26-year-old ‘play anywhere’ close-seasonsigning from Wakefield is obviously no mug whenhe has either a rugby ball or a guitar in his hands.“I just took my guitar up to Newcastle with me forour pre-season training session theother week, so we could perhaps havea bit of a sing-song on the way back,”said Grix.“Someone suggested I could take it toaway matches, and if we win we canhave a singalong on the coach cominghome.”At the moment, however, Grix ismore interested in making peopledance to his tune on the field and iskeen for a place in the squad fortonight’s big League opener.“The pre-season game at Castlefordwas good. I thought we’d be a bitrusty in our first game, but we were abit better than rusty to be honest.“With pre-season training going on alittle bit longer because of the weather it was justnice to get a game under our belts, and noweveryone is absolutely raring for a spot in thestarting line-up.“I feel to have fitted in well here and I did know oneor two of the lads when I came.”Obviously I knew Drew well (Brad Drew, who alsoreturned to the Giants from Wakefield at the same

time), while I also knew LukeRobinson (the two are close neighboursin Sowerby Bridge).“And then of course, I played internationalrugby with Simon Finnigan, when we both

played for Ireland in the 2008World Cup, and although I’vemoved to a few clubs before soit’s not a new thing for me, it iseasier fitting in when you alreadyknow a few players, and it’s not quiteso scary on your first day of trainingwhen there are a few familiar facesaround.“Bradford Bulls represent a toughstart for us, but then all the teamshave strengthened and anyone wouldbe a tough start.“They are all blowing their owntrumpets at the moment, saying:‘we’re fitter, quicker, stronger, etc,’ butI think if we put our own house in

order then we should be all right.”Grix’s undoubted versatility is a real bonus for headcoach Brown, as he impressed in a variety of roleslast season at Wakefield where he made 23 startsand scored nine tries.He is equally at home playing at half-back, full-backor as hooker. And against Castleford Brown playedhim in the back row of the pack, which is anotherberth he is more than capable of filling.


KEITH MASON hopes tobring Hollywoood starMickey Rourke to theGalpharm clash withLeeds Rhinos.

Huddersfield take onthe champions on Sunday,March 17 and prop Masonis confident his buddy willpull out all the stops andcall in.

Their friendship beganon the night of the Giants’Challenge Cup final defeatwhen Mason and ScottMoore were introduced tothe 57-year-old Rourke atStringfellow’s.

A second meeting a fewdays later saw thestar-struck duo misstraining and pick uptwo-match bans.

But the friendship hascontinued.

Mason said: “I’mfriends with a famousHollywood actor ... not alot of Super Leagueplayers can say that!

“I visited him in NewYork and we exchangetext messages.

“He’s followed the gamesince he’d seen his closefriend Richard Harris starin the rugby league filmThis Sporting Life in the1960s.”

Rourke is said to bekeen to do a re-make ofThis Sporting Life if hecan get the rights to it.

Mason takingthe Mickey ...to Galpharm

8RourkeRLblockbusters1: Sin(field) City2: MelbourneStormbreaker3: Barfly-half4: Angel Hurt5: Nine and a half-backWeeks6: Rogue (Wigan) Warrior7: Man-ly on Fire8: Les Davidson and theMarlboro Man

■ FRIEND TO STAR:Prop Keith Mason

OldestplayersPlayer DOBSteve Menzies 04/05/74(Bradford)Brad Drew 25/08/75(Giants)Jason Demetriou 13/01/76(Wakefield)Willie Talau 25/01/76(Salford)Keith Senior 24/04/76(Bradford)

■ NEW BOYS: Giants signings line up (from left) Kyle Wood, David Fa'alogo, Brad Drew,Lee Gilmour, Graeme Horne and Scott Grix (PW270110Aphotocall-03)

Guitar manGrix set topull strings

By DAVID LOCKWOODSports [email protected]

BRADFORD BULLSCoach: Steve McNamara (since April 2006).Captain: to be announced.Previous finishes (most recent last): 3rd, 1st(champions), 5th, 1st (runners-up), 3rd, 1st (champions),2nd (runners-up), 1st (champions), 2nd (runners-up), 3rd(champions), 4th, 3rd, 5th, 9th.2009 leading scorers: tries - Semi Tadulala 13;goals - Paul Deacon 86; points - Paul Deacon 187.Biggest Super League win: 96-16 (vSalford, 2000).Biggest Super League defeat:66-4 (v St Helens, 2005).Ground and capacity: Odsal,26,019.2009 average attendance:9,677 (down 610).Record Super Leagueattendance: 24,020 (v Leeds1999).In: Danny Sculthorpe (Wakefield viaHuddersfield) pictured, Brett Kearney(Cronulla), Matt Orford, Glenn Hall, Heath L’Estrange (allManly), Stuart Reardon (ex-Warrington).Out: Sam Burgess (South Sydney), Terry Newton, GlennMorrison, Ben Jeffries (all Wakefield), Matt Cook (Hull KR),David Solomona (Warrington), Matt James (Harlequins),Semi Tadulala (released), Paul Deacon (Wigan).Player to watch: Matt Orford - a like-for-likereplacement for Paul Deacon who has been described asthe best scrum-half never to play for Australia.Rising star: James Donaldson - Cumbrian back rowerwho made seven substitute appearances in 2009 and islikely to get more game time this year.Odds to finish top: 16-1.Prospects: The Bulls failed to reach the play-offs for thefirst time in 2009 so the only way is up and Orford canpoint the way.Prediction: 9th.

CASTLEFORD TIGERSCoach: Terry Matterson (since November 2005).Captain: Ryan Hudson.Previous finishes (most recent last): 9th, 10th,6th, 5th, 5th, 8th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 2nd in National League(champions), 11th (relegated), 1st in National League(champions), 12th, 7th.2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Kirk Dixon 17; goals: Kirk Dixon 51; points - KirkDixon 170.Biggest Super League win: 74-16 (vSalford, 2002).Biggest Super League defeat:68-12 (v St Helens, 2008).Ground and capacity: TheJungle (formerly Wheldon Road),11,750.2009 average attendance:7,490 (down 11).Record Super Leagueattendance: 11,731 (v Leeds,2004).In: Steve Snitch (Wakefield), pictured, PaulJackson (Huddersfield).Out: Sione Faumuina (released), James Ford (Widnes),Chris Feather (Villeneuve), Ryan Boyle (Salford).Player to watch: Rangi Chase - the Kiwi stand-off wasone of the overseas signings of the year in 2009 and ishoping to avoid the second-season syndrome.Rising star: John Davies - a teenage back row who hasbeen promoted to the Tigers’ Super League squad afterimpressing in the reserves.Odds to finish top: 80-1.Prospects: Castleford made significant progress in2009, reaching the play-offs for the first time for eightyears, but with little significant recruitment look in dangerof slipping back.Prediction: 11th.

CATALANS DRAGONSCoach: Kevin Walters (since December 2008).Captain: to be announced.Previous finishes (most recent last): 12th, 10th,3rd, 8th.2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Olivier Elima and Dimitri Pelo both 17; goals -Thomas Bosc 78; points - Thomas Bosc 174.Biggest Super League win: 66-6 (v Salford, 2007).Biggest Super League defeat: 60-12 (v Leeds,2006).Ground and capacity: Gilbert BrutusStadium, 7,000 (temporary reductionduring renovation in 2010).2009 average attendance:9,104 (up 616).Record Super Leagueattendance: 11,122 (v Wigan,2006, at Stade Aime Giral).In: Chris Walker (Gold Coast),Setaimata Sa (Sydney Roosters),Dallas Johnson (Melbourne), TonyGigot (Harlequins).Out: Jason Ryles (Sydney Roosters), ShanePerry, Jason Croker (both released), Vincent Duport(Toulouse), Greg Bird (Gold Coast).Player to watch: Thomas Bosc - a player who has littleleft to prove at Super League level but his form will becrucial to his team’s play-off hopes, pictured.Rising star: Tony Gigot - French-born stand-off whocaught the eye playing for Harlequins’ reserves in 2009and is hoping to get his chance in Super League.Odds to finish top: 20-1.Prospects: The Dragons will be looking to pick up fromwhere they left off in 2009, when they came with a laterush to go to within 80 minutes of the Grand Final, andcoach Kevin Walters has made some useful acquisitions.Prediction: 8th.

CRUSADERSCoach: Brian Noble (since October 2009), pictured.Captain: to be announced.Previous finish: 14th.2009 leading scorers: tries - Luke Dyer and LincolnWithers both 6; goals - Josh Hannay 24; points - JoshHannay 56.Biggest Super League win: 25-12 (v Salford, 2009).

Biggest Super League defeat: 68-0 (v Leeds,2009).Ground and capacity: Racecourse Ground,10,000.2009 average attendance (at BreweryField): 3,603 (up 1,674 on National League).

Record Super League attendance: 6,351 (v StHelens, 2009).In: Nick Youngquest (Gateshead), Gareth Raynor, JamieThackray, Tommy Lee (all Hull), Michael Witt (Otago RU),Tony Martin, Frank Winterstein (bothWakefield), Vince Mellars (AucklandVulcans), Rocky Trimarchi (WestsTigers).Out: Chris Beasley, Darren Mapp(both Queensland CentralComets), Paul Ballard (Blackpool),Neil Budworth, Josh Hannay (bothMacKay Cutters, NSW), MarshallChalk (Gold Coast Titans), MarkDalle Cort (Northern Pride), GeraintDavies (Coventry RU), Tony Duggan,Damien Quinn (both Lezignan), Aled James(released), Mark Lennon (Burleigh Bears), Matty Smith,Stephen Tyrer (both Salford), David Tangata Toa (returnedto Australia), Jace Van Dijk (Easts Tigers).Player to watch: Michael Witt - a goalkicking half-backwho is looking to resurrect his career after an unsuccessfulswitch of codes.Rising star: Lloyd White - stand-off or loose forwardwho seized his chance at first-team level at the end of lastseason and also caught the eye playing for Wales.Odds to finish top: 150-1.Prospects: The Crusaders have the most high-profilecoaching staff but they have had precious little time toassemble a team and they are sure to struggle.Prediction: 13th.

HARLEQUINS RLCoach: Brian McDermott (since July 2006), pictured.Captain: Rob Purdham (Chad Randall standing in for thefirst three months).Previous finishes (most recent last): 4th, 2nd(runners-up), 7th, 8th, 11th, 6th, 8th, 5th, 10th, 6th, 7th,9th, 9th, 11th.2009 leading scorers: tries - David Howell 14;

goals - Danny Orr 43; points - Danny Orr 102.Biggest Super League win: 72-8 (v Wakefield,2005).Biggest Super League defeat: 74-12 (v Bradford,1999).Ground and capacity: Twickenham Stoop, 15,000.2009 average attendance: 3,436 (down 337).Record Super League attendance: 9,638 (v Paris,at The Valley, 1996).In: Andy Ellis (Barrow), Oliver Wilkes (Wakefield), MattJames (Bradford), Ben Jones, Ben Jones-Bishop (bothLeeds, Jones-Bishop on loan).Out: Daniel Heckenberg, ChadRobinson (all returned to Australia),Matt Gardner, Jon Grayshon,Gareth Haggerty (all Widnes),Matt Gafa, Joe Mbu (both retired),Mick Nanyn (Leigh), Dylan Skee(Whitehaven).Player to watch: Luke Dorn -the much-travelled stand-off failedto make a big impression in his firstseason back in London, mainly due to abroken leg, and is out to make up for losttime.Rising star: Ben Jones-Bishop - Leeds sprang asurprise by allowing the teenage full-back to go out on loanfor he looks like a player with exciting potential.Odds to finish top: 125-1.Prospects: Quins won just one of their last 12 matchesin 2009 and, with a series of low-key signings, are indanger of enduring another season of mediocrity.Prediction: 12th.

HUDDERSFIELD GIANTSCoach: Nathan Brown (since December 2008).Captain: Brett Hodgson.Previous finishes (most recent last): 12th, 12th,12th, 12th (relegated), 1st in NFP, 10th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 5th,10th, 3rd.2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - David Hodgson 18; goals - Brett Hodgson 88; points- Brett Hodgson 220.Biggest Super League win: 68-16(v Leigh, 2005).Biggest Super Leaguedefeat: 86-6 (v Leeds, 1999).Ground and capacity:Galpharm Stadium, 24,500.2009 averageattendance: 7,641 (up 205).Record Super Leagueattendance: 15,629 (v Leeds,2008).In: David Fa’alogo (South Sydney), LeeGilmour (St Helens), Greg McNally(Whitehaven), Brad Drew, pictured, Scott Grix (bothWakefield), Graeme Horne (Hull), Kyle Wood (Sheffield),Jamie Cording (Castleford).Out: Scott Moore (returned from loan spell to St Helens),Paul Jackson (Castleford), Liam Fulton (Wests Tigers),Tom Hemingway (Blackpool), Joe Walsh (Sheffield)),Danny Sculthorpe (Bradford).Player to watch: Brett Hodgson - the Giants skipperenjoyed a spectacularly successful debut season, liftingthe Man of Steel award, and is again the man to watch.Rising star: Michael Lawrence - a naturally-gifted centre

and superb defender and, still only 19, is hoping to getmore game time this year.Odds to finish top: 12-1.Prospects: After being crowned club of the year on amemorable night at the Man of Steel awards in October,the Giants have a tough act to follow but Nathan Brownhas recruited wisely and they could be the ones tochallenge the big two.Prediction: 3rd.

HULL FCCoach: Richard Agar (since May 2008).Captain: Sean Long.Previous finishes (most recent last): 9th, 11th,7th, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 3rd, 5th, 2nd, 4th, 11th, 12th.2009 leading scorers: tries - Craig Hall 10; goals -Danny Tickle 76; points - Danny Tickle 176.Biggest Super League win: 82-6 (v Salford, 2004).Biggest Super League defeat: 64-10 (v St Helens,2002) - also lost 71-0 at Bradford in 2005 play-offs.Ground and capacity: KC Stadium,25,404.2009 average attendance:13,226 (down 206).Record Super Leagueattendance: 23,004 (v Hull KR,2007).In: Sean Long (St Helens),pictured, Mark O’Meley, CraigFitzgibbon (both Sydney Roosters),Jordan Turner (Salford).Out: Josh Hodgson (Hull KR), DominicMaloney (Halifax), Gareth Raynor, JamieThackray, Tommy Lee (all Crusaders), Graeme Horne(Huddersfield), Motu Tony, Todd Byrne (both released),Chris Thorman (York), Josh Cordoba (Cronulla), Paul King(Wakefield).Player to watch: Craig Fitzgibbon - now an elderstatesman of the game, the former Australian Test forwardwill galvanise the Hull pack and bring a disciplinedapproach to the whole team.Rising star: Tom Briscoe - 2009 was a virtual write-offfor this promising winger but he made his comeback intime to play for England and, still only 19, should make abig impact at club level in 2010.Odds to finish top: 25-1.Prospects: Just when Hull fans thought their club’sfortunes had hit rock bottom, they got worse in 2009 but,with the introduction of quality personnel, they shouldmake significant strides this year.Prediction: 7th.

HULL KINGSTON ROVERSCoach: Justin Morgan (since July 2005).Captain: Mick Vella.Previous finishes (most recent last): 11th, 7th,4th.2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Peter Fox 18; goals - Michael Dobson 100; points -Michael Dobson 246.Biggest Super League win: 48-12 (v Salford, 2009).Biggest Super League defeat: 60-20 (vWarrington, 2007 - also lost 40-0 v St Helens).Ground and capacity: Craven Park, 10,215.2009 average attendance:8,501 (down 53).Record Super Leagueattendance: 10,197 (v Hull,2008).In: Joel Clinton (Brisbane, to beconfirmed), Matt Cook(Bradford), pictured, JoshHodgson (Hull), Mike Ratu(Leeds).Out: Daniel Fitzhenry (WestsTigers), Stanley Gene, Makali Aizue(both Halifax), Nick Fozzard (St Helens).Player to watch: Joel Clinton - still to be confirmed butClinton is expected to become the club’s high-profilesigning, having played at the highest level in Australia, andwill be needed to bolster a pack missing Nick Fozzard andMakali Aizue.Rising star: Frankie Mariano - a promising utility playerwho is set to realise his dream of playing Super League forhis home-town club after being promoted from thereserves.Odds to finish top: 25-1.Prospects: The Robins exceeded most expectations in2009 with a fourth-placed finish and they could struggle torepeat that feat with, on paper, a weaker squad.Prediction: 10th.

LEEDS RHINOSCoach: Brian McClennan (since November 2007).Captain: Kevin Sinfield.Previous finishes (most recent last): 10th, 5th,2nd (runners-up), 3rd, 4th, 5th, 4th, 2nd (lost in finaleliminator), 1st (champions), 2nd (runners-up), 3rd, 2nd(champions), 2nd (champions), 1st (champions).2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Ryan Hall 31; goals - Kevin Sinfield 117; points -Kevin Sinfield 253.Biggest Super League win: 86-6 (v Huddersfield,1999).Biggest Super League defeat: 68-14 (v Wigan,1996).Ground and capacity: Headingley, 22,000.2009 average attendance: 15,312 (down 1,444).Record Super League attendance: 23,035 (vBradford 2003).In: Greg Eastwood (Canterbury), pictured, Brett Delaney(Gold Coast), Mike Coady (Doncaster), Kyle Amor(Whitehaven).

Out: Lee Smith (Wasps RU), Mike Ratu (Hull KR), AshleyGibson, Jodie Broughton (both Salford), Danny Allan(Featherstone), Ben Jones-Bishop (Harlequins, on loan),Simon Worrall (Toulouse, on loan).Player to watch: Greg Eastwood - better late thannever for the World Cup winner, the champions’replacement for Gareth Ellis who willbe out to make up for lost time.Rising star: Kallum Watkins -a naturally-gifted centre whohas produced a series ofpromising cameoperformances over the last twoseasons and now looks set tomake the big breakthrough.Odds to finish top: 11-10.Prospects: The champions areshowing no sign of slowing up and, infact, with a marginally stronger squad, could pull furtheraway from the rivals in 2010.Prediction: 1st.

SALFORD CITY REDSCoach: Shaun McRae (since June 2007), pictured.Captain: Malcolm Alker.Previous finishes (most recent last): 6th, 11th,12th, 9th, 10th, 12th (relegated), 1st (in National League,promoted), 9th, 9th, 5th, 12th (relegated), 1st (in NationalLeague, promoted), 13th.2009 leading scorers: tries - Richie Myler 11; goals- John Wilshere 59; points - John Wilshere 158.Biggest Super League win: 48-10 (v Wakefield,2006).Biggest Super League defeat: 96-16 (v Bradford,2000).Ground and capacity: The Willows, 11,363.2009 average attendance: 4,390 (up 622 onNational League).Record Super League attendance: 8,070 (v Leeds,2007).In: Ryan Boyle (Castleford), Matty Smith, Stephen Tyrer(both St Helens via Celtic Crusaders), Daniel Holdsworth(Canterbury Bulldogs), Ashley Gibson,Jodie Broughton (both Leeds).Out: Craig Stapleton, JohnWilshere (both returned toAustralia), Robbie Paul (Leigh),Jordan Turner (Hull), Richie Myler(Warrington), Paul White(Halifax), Jason Walton (Batley),Stephen Nash (Leigh).Player to watch: StefanRatchford - while most eyes were onRichie Myler, this utility back seized hisopportunity to make his mark as a SuperLeague player in 2009 and he can make even moreprogress this year.Rising star: Jack Spencer - teenage forward who madehis Super League debut towards the end of last seasonand is set for more senior appearances this year.Odds to finish top: 150-1.Prospects: It was generally a season of struggle for theReds in 2009 and the prospects do not appear muchbrighter.Prediction: 14th.

ST HELENSCoach: Mick Potter (since December 2008).Captain: Keiron Cunningham, pictured.Previous finishes (most recent last): 1st(champions), 3rd, 4th, 2nd (champions), 2nd (champions),4th, 1st (champions), 4th, 5th, 1st (lost in final eliminator),1st (champions), 1st (runners-up), 1st (runners-up), 2nd(runners-up).2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Leon Pryce 16; goals - Sean Long 49; points - SeanLong 117.Biggest Super League win: 78-4 (v Leigh, 2005).Biggest Super League defeat: 70-0 (v Leeds,2004).Ground and capacity: Knowsley Road, 17,100.2009 average attendance: 11,027 (up 287).Record Super League attendance: 18,098 (vWarrington, 1996).In: Sia Soliola (Sydney Roosters),Nick Fozzard (Hull KR), ScottMoore (returned from loan spellsat Castleford and Huddersfield).Out: Jason Cayless (WestsTigers), Sean Long (Hull), LeeGilmour (Huddersfield).Player to watch: Sia Soliola- at last a centre replacement forWillie Talau, although the NewZealand international could findhimself in the pack for much of theseason.Rising star: Gary Wheeler - among a crop of hugelypromising youngsters, he demonstrated his versatility byappearing in most back positions in 2009 and looks sure toget more game time this year.Odds to finish top: 5-2.Prospects: The departure of Long and Gilmour willincrease the dependence on the club’s crop of talentedyoungsters but Saints still have enough class to challengeLeeds.Prediction: 2nd.

WAKEFIELD TRINITY WILDCATSCoach: John Kear (since July 2006).Captain: Jason Demetriou.Previous finishes (most recent last): 11th, 10th,11th, 11th, 11th, 6th, 10th, 10th, 8th, 8th, 5th.

Club-by-clubHuddersfieldGiants Super League special14

By IAN LAYBOURNSports Correspondent

2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Ryan Atkins 13; goals - Danny Brough 70; points -Danny Brough 180.Biggest Super League win: 68-6 (v Halifax, 2003).Biggest Super League defeat: 72-8 (v London,2005).Ground and capacity: Belle Vue, 11,000.2009 average attendance: 5,891 (down 1,109).Record Super League attendance: 11,000 (vCastleford, 2006).In: Paul Johnson (Warrington), Paul King (Hull), DarylMillard (Canterbury Bulldogs), Ben Jeffries, Terry Newton ,pictured, Glenn Morrison (all Bradford), Shane Tronc(North Queensland).Out: Ricky Bibey (Leigh), Jamie Rooney (Barrow), TonyMartin, Frank Winterstein (both Crusaders), Matt Peterson,James Stosic (both released), Brad Drew,Scott Grix (both Huddersfield), RyanAtkins (Warrington), Steve Snitch(Castleford), Oliver Wilkes(Harlequins), Danny Sculthorpe(Bradford via Huddersfield).Player to watch: DannyBrough - John Kear has brought inseven new and experienced facesfor 2010 but their prospects willonce more hinge on the ability of theirgifted goalkicking half-back toorchestrate matters.Rising star: James Davey - among a host of promisingyoungsters promoted to senior level, this clever hooker hasshown enough signs of making it in Super League.Odds to finish top: 50-1.Prospects: The Wildcats were one of the successstories of 2009 and the arrival of players of genuine classpoints to another successful campaign.Prediction: 6th.

WARRINGTON WOLVESCoach: Tony Smith (since March 2009).Captain: Adrian Morley.Previous finishes (most recent last): 5th, 9th,10th, 7th, 6th, 7th, 10th, 6th, 8th, 4th, 6th, 7th, 6th, 10th.2009 leading scorers: tries - Chris Hicks 16; goals -Chris Hicks 65; points - Chris Hicks 162.Biggest Super League win: 66-6 (v Halifax, 2003).Biggest Super League defeat: 72-2 (v St Helens,2002).Ground and capacity: Halliwell Jones Stadium,13,024.2009 average attendance: 9,228 (down 268).Record Super League attendance: 14,206 (vWakefield, 2004).In: Richie Myler (Salford), pictured, Ryan Atkins(Wakefield), David Solomona (Bradford).Out: Paul Rauhihi (released), PaulJohnson (Wakefield), StevePickersgill (Widnes), Brian Carney(retired).Player to watch: Richie Myler -the former Widnes and Salfordhalf-back enjoyed a meteoric rise tofame with England and it is now timefor him to make a mark at SuperLeague level.Rising star: Tyrone McCarthy - TonySmith has pinned his faith in the Ireland international whowon a Challenge Cup winners’ medal in only his thirdsenior appearance.Odds to finish top: 10-1.Prospects: A trio of class signings and with no Englanddistractions for Tony Smith, the Wolves are bankers for theplay-offs and could seriously challenge the big two.Prediction: 4th.

WIGAN WARRIORSCoach: Michael Maguire (since October 2009).Captain: Five-man leadership team.Previous finishes (most recent last): 2nd(runners-up), 4th, 1st (champions), 4th, 1st (runners-up),2nd (runners-up), 3rd, 3rd (runners-up), 4th, 7th, 8th, 6th,4th, 6th.2009 leading scorers (including play-offs):tries - Pat Richards 20; goals - Pat Richards 89; points -Pat Richards 258.Biggest Super League win: 78-4 (v Workington,1996).Biggest Super League defeat: 70-0 (v Leeds,2005).Ground and capacity: JJB Stadium, 25,004.2009 average attendance: 13,695 (down 260).Record Super League attendance: 25,004 (v StHelens 2005).In: Paul Deacon (Bradford), pictured.Out: Mark Flanagan (Wests Tigers).Player to watch: Sam Tomkins -Super League’s young player of theyear is one of the mosttalked-about players in SuperLeague and it is all justified.Rising star: Joe Mellor - an18-year-old half-back hoping tofollow in the footsteps of SamTomkins but whose anticipated SuperLeague debut will be delayed by a kneeinjury sustained in pre-season training.Odds to finish top: 12-1.Prospects: With a virtual unchanged squad, theWarriors’ bid to end the Leeds-Saints monopoly willdepend on the ability of new coach Michael Maguire to getthe best out his charges.Prediction: 5th.Odds courtesy of William Hill

2010guideIT’S great that the season kicksoff with Bradford.

For starters, it’ll be the chanceto meet up with my old Giantsteammate and the ‘ItalianStallion’ Chris Nero.

Over at Odsal they also callhim ‘Steve Menzies Shadow’,because he’s always followinghim around.

But Chris still has time to keepup an on-going feud with (formerGiants full-back) Paul Reilly onFacebook. They must be trying tokeep a special relationshipsecret.

When it comes to the Bradfordteam, I’m sure they’ll look forwardto having warm showers afterthey’ve played against us.

That’s something we didn’thave the luxury of at their placeearly last season, which we allfound a surprise for such asuccessful club.

Next up, we’ll look atCastleford, who are under thecharge of Terry Matterson, or‘Box Head’ as we used to call himwhen he was my assistant coachat Canberra.

Unfortunately, he suffered thathorrible injury in France the otherweek when he lost a finger, whichhas ended his guitar-playingdays, not that he actually playedone!

I’m also looking forward tomeeting up with (ex-Giantscentre) Jimmy Evans, who wasalso on Canberra’s books withme.

He’s a good lad, and him andChris Nero still remaininseparable. There must besomething going on!

Over at CatalansKangaroos – sorry,Dragons – I hear theycelebrated Australia Day inPerpignan last Tuesday, becausethere are so many Aussies ontheir books.

I personally love theatmosphere down in the South ofFrance, and I have to say, thelocals’ knowledge of English ispretty impressive.

When you walk aroundPerpignan ahead of the game,

you’re often recognised, and youhave to take your hat off to theirvast array of English abusiveterms, which are generallydirected towards big Eorl.

The accents are obviously a bitdifferent at Crusaders, andwhat can you say about them?

I’m surprised they’ve evenmanaged to field a team becauseof all their off-field problems, andI hope they do well.

To be honest, we’re all pleasedthey’ve moved north to Wrexham,because their Bridgend grounddefinitely wasn’t the greatest.

Luckily, I didn’t play there lastseason, and I gather missing theteam bus that week was thesmartest move I made.

Moving down to Harlequins,and I’ll be meeting up withanother good mate of mine instar man Chad Randall, a goodbloke, but a bad drinker.

Once again, he’s very close toChris Nero and they have astrange, strange relationship.

There’s clearly a themedeveloping here over our MrNero, and I think we’ll draw a veilover this subject to stop peopletalking. He’s still my mate.

But, quickly back to Quins, andI have to say the atmosphere atThe Stoop isn’t the greatest inthe world, but they make up forthat with their cheerleaders – notthat I’m able to watch them whileI’m playing, of course!

Hull FC have made somegood signings in AustraliansCraig Fitzgibbon, who’s a topbloke, and Mark O’Meley, wholoves to talk himself up.

Mark’s a very funny bloke,particularly when his words get infront of his brain.

But I really must questionHull’s administration when theyallow a player like GraemeHorne to leave. He’s a greattalent and, on behalf ofeveryone at the Giants, I’d like tosay a big ‘thank you’ for lettingus have him.

I have to admit I wassurprised when I was told theHull fans had a bit of a‘reputation’, because from myexperience it’s the fans over atHull KR who are the problem.

I absolutely hate playing atCraven Park. It’s terrible,horrendous, shocking.

As well as being a poorground, it’s got a bad pitch andawful changing rooms. It’s alsoincredibly cold.

In fact, the only good thingabout going there is the bus triphome!

Leeds will again be the teamto beat in Super League,especially with Greg Eastwoodfinally on board.

Don’t let his barrel bodydeceive you. He will punish youif you run near him.

We’ve actually known eachother for a while now, and wentto the same school on the GoldCoast, Keebra Park State High,although I’m a bit older.

Although you know you’realways going to be in for a toughtime at Headingley, I actuallylove the atmosphere and I’mlooking forward to going backthere.

That, however, can’t be saidabout Salford and TheWillows.

Their changing rooms really arethe pits, although I don’t think that’sa view shared by Robbo (LukeRobinson).

The problem with the sheds isthat the roof slopes down on oneside, and Robbo’s the only onewho can fit under it, so he’s gotbags of room to change, while therest of us have to huddle together.

But it’ll still be good to meet upwith Willie Talau, who’s even louderthan me!

Lee Gilmour (Talau’s old mate atSt Helens) has actually said howrelieved he is that me and Williearen’t teammates, because he’dhave gone deaf!

Talking of St Helens, it’ll begood to catch up with Keiron Purtill,who is assistant coach there afterhaving that job here.

I was personally shocked whenhe left Huddersfield, because hemet all the criteria for being one ofour coaches – bald.

He would have still fitted in nicelywith our ‘chrome domes’.

What never fails to shock menow, however, is the ‘smartness’ ofKevin Henderson at Wakefield.

His quotes are legendary,including the classic: Myconfidence is probably ‘70-40’ atthe moment!

When Drewy was at Wakefield,Kev kept winding him up becauseof his stupidity.

But he’s still a good player andwill pose a big threat when we playthere.

Personally, I love playing atWakefield. It’s always a greatatmosphere, with the fans veryactive and vocal.

Next Warrington, the teamwho beat us in the Challenge Cupfinal.

We don’t hold that against them,because we didn’t play well atWembley on the day, but I supposeit would be nice to get our ownback this year.

Their star that day was myformer Canberra teammateMichael Monaghan, who is still agood friend of mine.

He’s always been a very bigschemer, both on the field and offit. .

Finally, it’s Wigan, who arenow under the charge of my formerassistant coach at Canberra,Michael Maguire.

Madge is a top coach and I’msure he’ll do very well and bring thebest out of the likes of anothergood mate of mine in Mark ‘Piggy’Riddell. A top bloke.

His nickname is fully deserved,and if his teammates ever run shortof food, they’ll know where to get abucket load of bacon!”


... plus Jammer the Hammer’s take on teams

Guys, is a hot showertoo much to ask for?

■ RECURRING THEME:Ex-Giants star Chris Nero

Documents

Huddersfield Giants - Super League XV