Lam proud of Halsall

Wigan Warriors Head Coach Adrian Lam has paid tribute to Sam Halsall, who is currently on loan at Newcastle Thunder.

He played for the Championship side just days after his father passed away. Wigan wore black armbands in Friday’s defeat against Hull KR as a mark of respect.

Our players are wearing black armbands tonight in memory of Dave Halsall – Sam Halsall’s dad who sadly passed away this week.

We send our deepest condolences to Sam and the Halsall family at this awful time. Our thoughts are with you all. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/GBob0caUrC

— Wigan Warriors 🍒⚪️ (@WiganWarriorsRL) June 18, 2021

Halsall also marked his debut with a try in Newcastle’s 40-6 win over Oldham at Kingston Park.

Lam said: “After the tragedy that happened with his father’s passing, he came into my office a day later and we both hugged and cried for a long time.

“I’m emotional talking about it, because as a young man, that is not supposed to happen to you. Sam was in a really difficult place, and still is with family.

“He was here with his teammates, and he wanted to be here and away from that to make sure his head was clear. He made the decision to play for Newcastle at the weekend, because it is what his dad would have wanted.

“He scored a try and influenced the game in several ways. We are really proud of what he has done in this situation. I know it was emotional in the changing rooms at Newcastle as well.

“I want to give Sam a big wrap on behalf of the club and being strong through this situation. The whole club is there to get behind him.”