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LIONS ANNOUNCE DUAL-REGISTRATION PARTNERSHIP WITH WIGAN

21 January 2018

Swinton Lions RLFC is delighted to officially confirm that the dual-registration arrangement with top Super League outfit Wigan Warriors will continue into 2018.

Over the past couple of seasons, the Lions’ bid to consolidate in the Championship has been greatly enhanced by the availability of such players as winger Liam Marshall, who rampaged to 18 tries in 22 appearances during the 2016 season.

Liam has gone on to use that experience to firmly establish himself in the Warriors’ Super League squad, whilst the Lions have been able to make the likes of the talented Luke Waterworth and Gabe Fell permanent signings.

In 2017 the Lions also benefitted immensely from the input of the talented half-back Josh Woods, as well as Tom Davies, Liam Forsyth, Romain Navarette, Liam Paisley, Caine Barnes, Callum Field, Joe Bretherton and Nick Gregson. In turn, these Wigan players picked up invaluable experience competing in the tough surroundings of the Championship.

Lions’ Chairman Andy Mazey was thrilled to sign-off an extension to this important arrangement with Wigan. He said, “The dual registration system has worked well in previous seasons for both clubs, so I’m pleased we’ve been able to get it signed off and I’m delighted that we have entered into our New Era with this partnership agreement in place. It will allow us to build on our professional and respectful relationship with Wigan Warriors into the future.

“With a tight budget and a small squad this year whilst we rebuild our club sustainably, the partnership with Wigan provides us with the ability to source quality players to supplement our squad when Stuart deems it necessary. In turn the players receive valuable game time and experience in a challenging Championship environment.

“On behalf of the Swinton Board I would like to thank everyone at Wigan Warriors for their continued support – in particular Matthew Peet, Chris Radlinski and Shaun Wane.”

Lions’ Head Coach Stuart Littler added, “It’s absolutely outstanding news to be dual-registration partners again with Wigan for the upcoming season. Being partners with such an elite club and brand allows us access to some world class players from their first team, and some outstanding prospects from their youth teams.

“Wigan are a club with a great culture and every player we have had in the past has come with an outstanding attitude and has therefore added value to our squad. I would like to thank Kris Radlinski, Matty Peet, Shaun Wane and the entire Wigan club for their part in what is a special arrangement for our club. We look forward to a successful partnership, and one that allows both teams to progress as a result.”

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