Wigan Wheelchair Rugby League Team Aims to Become Global Champions

Wigan wheelchair coach Chris Greenhalgh is dreaming big as his team prepares to take on French champions Catalans Dragons in the European Wheelchair Rugby League Club Championship this Saturday. After winning last season’s Wheelchair Super League title, Greenhalgh hopes his team can follow in the footsteps of the men’s team, who recently won the World Club Challenge.

“This is massive for us as a team and for the club,” Greenhalgh told BBC Sport. “After the success of the men’s team, we have a chance to match them again.”

The Warriors will face a tough challenge against Catalans Dragons, who are also the Challenge Cup holders and boast a number of France and England internationals in their squad. Despite being considered underdogs, Greenhalgh believes in the talent and determination of his players, especially captain Declan Roberts.

“Dec is the most creative playmaker in the country in the wheelchair game,” Greenhalgh said. “He leads our offense and sees things that others don’t. He is our captain and our leader.”

With the addition of Roberts’ younger brother Nathan to the squad, there is a possibility of a family affair on the court with their father Phil also in the team. Greenhalgh acknowledges the strength of Catalans Dragons but is confident in his team’s ability to rise to the challenge.

“They play the game at an intensity above any other team in this country,” Greenhalgh said. “Their speed is phenomenal to watch, but we are looking forward to the challenge.”

As the Warriors aim to become rugby league global premiers, all eyes will be on Robin Park this Saturday as they take on Catalans Dragons in what promises to be an exciting and competitive match.