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3 weeks ago
07 September 2020
Swinton Lions are delighted to announce the signing of experienced half-back Martyn Ridyard for the 2021 season.
Swinton Lions are delighted to officially announce the signing of Martyn Ridyard.
Without doubt is one of the Rugby League Championship’s most outstanding players of the past decade. Martyn will be joining the club on a one-year deal ahead of the 2021 season.
Accomplished and experienced half-back Martyn originally progressed through the community game at Leigh Miners Rangers, before earning his first professional contract in 2009 with his hometown club, Leigh Centurions.
Martyn then enjoyed a stellar career at Leigh, during which time he earned a reputation as being one of the Championship’s most exciting and influential performers. At Leigh he twice lifted the Northern Rail Cup, and then won the Man-of-the-Match award when Leigh carried off the Championship title in 2014. That same season Martyn was crowned the Kingstone Press Player of the Year.
In 2017, Martyn spent an effective spell on loan at Super League Huddersfield, before joining Championship rivals Featherstone Rovers. He then returned to Leigh in 2019.
Upon joining Swinton, Martyn said, “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Lions. I get on really well with the coaching staff, and in fact I’ve known both Stuart Littler and Allan Coleman since I was a young lad.
“Every player I’ve spoken to has had nothing but great things to say about Swinton as a club. The Lions play an attractive style with the ball and under Stuart they have become a very good side. I’m really excited by the challenge which lies ahead and I feel that I’ve still got plenty to offer, so hopefully I can help the team progress further. I’m now looking forward to a big year ahead and to getting started with the boys.”
Swinton Head Coach Stuart Littler was understandably thrilled with the Lions’ latest recruit. He added, “This is yet another piece of huge transfer news for our club with the recruitment of Martyn Ridyard. It’s another signing that signals our intent as a club to continue with our progress both on and off the field.
Martyn has done everything that you can possibly do at this level having won the League, the Championship Player of the Year, and the Man of the Match in a Grand Final. In addition to that he has also had a successful spell in Super League at Huddersfield, as well as becoming one of the all-time leading points scorers at Leigh. That experience will be absolutely massive for us as a club as we continue to drive standards and expectations within our organisation.
“I am personally delighted Martyn decided to join us over several of our rivals, particularly as he is a family friend. He progressed through the system at Leigh Miners Rangers, which of course is the same community club that myself and our assistant coach Allan Coleman came from.
“Martyn is very knowledgeable regarding team structures and we feel he will fit straight into our organisation. His experience and knowledge will assist him in helping to lead our players around the park. Martyn also has a very competent kicking game, both from hand and off the kicking tee, which is such a vital component of today’s game.
“I am sure this signing will really excite our loyal fans and Pride Builder members. Our boys are all itching to get back into training and prepare for what will be a massive 2021 season for our club. Every day we get one step closer and I’m sure there are some exciting times to come.”