‘Really tough’ – Former Wakefield Trinity boss reflects after finding success in new role

Former Wakefield Trinity boss Mark Applegarth has reflected on his ill-fated spell at the club in Super League last year.

Under Applegarth, Trinity suffered relegation from Super League, failing to beat the drop after being in a dogfight with rivals Castleford Tigers.

It marked a dark year for the club which lost their opening 14 games of the Super League season but under new ownership and management, they’re thriving in 2024 and look set to return to the elite competition.

Mark Applegarth has since found work with York Knights, replacing Andrew Henderson who moved into a director’s role, and Applegarth, known as Mash, has turned the Knights’ season around.

The Knights lost at the weekend 20-4 to Applegarth’s former club Wakefield Trinity but they’re still in the top six after winning 10 of 14 games under Mash.

He spoke ahead of the weekend’s fixture about his new-found success at York and that 2023 campaign against Wakefield Trinity.

Former Wakefield Trinity boss reflects on ‘tough’ 2023

Speaking on his return to coaching, Mash told the RFL website: “It’s great to get back into coaching. I’ve really enjoyed being back into that day-to-day with the players and all the crack that comes with it.

“I missed it, but I was glad of the break if I’m honest. I got to spend some quality time with my baby daughter who’s just turned three.”

He confirmed that after his exit from Wakefield Trinity, he had turned down other roles before being appointed to York in the summer.

Applegarth explained: “I did turn down a couple of opportunities that didn’t feel right or I didn’t feel ready for. But when York came knocking it just felt right. I’ve got a bit of history with the club, and I spoke to a lot of people there that I trust in.”

On the stark contrast between last year’s relegation and the 2024 revival at Wakefield Trinity, Applegarth confirmed his delight at seeing the club thrive.

“Last year was really tough for a number of reasons but one thing I never questioned was the player’s hearts.

“What Matt [Ellis] is doing is brilliant for the club now is great and there’s such exciting times ahead for Wakefield.

“I live literally five minutes away from Belle Vue and I’ve still got a lot of friends there. It’s my hometown club and it’s great to see them doing well, but hopefully not as well when they’re playing the team that I’m involved with!”

Unfortunately for Applegarth, Wakefield Trinity won Sunday’s game 20-4 but the Knights remain in the top six and control their own destiny with fixtures coming up against fellow challengers Sheffield Eagles and Featherstone Rovers.