The 2024 season will be a strange one for Super League fans as it will be the first time in the 21st century that Wakefield Trinity aren’t in the competition, but Super League’s loss is most certainly the Championship’s gain.
Wakefield Trinity’s spell in Super League ended last season with the club unable to pull off one more of their great escapes, however, since that relegation it’s been all positive news for Trin fans with a new owner, new head coach and a squad that looks set to tear the Championship apart.
That’s combined to create a sense of optimism at Belle Vue that hasn’t been seen in years and the proof is now in the season ticket sales, the club confirming that they’ve passed the 5,000 mark which is an incredible achievement.
Taking to social media platform X the club confirmed the news and with a few more days until their season officially launches, the number could rise even more.
Wakefield Trinity are set to travel to York to face the Knights in the 1895 Cup this weekend with both teams entering the game on the back of impressive performances.
The Knights recorded the largest-ever win in the 1895 Cup as they ran in 21 tries to defeat Newcastle Thunder 114-10, whereas Trinity were beating Wigan Warriors comfortably before floodlight failure caused the game to be abandoned.
That performance by Wakefield Trinity saw new signing Jermaine McGillvary run in a hatrick and although they faced a Wigan side with eight teenagers in it, there were still a handful of elite players on the field for Matt Peet’s side.
Wakefield Trinity heavy favourites for Championship
New Wakefield Trinity head coach Daryl Powell – Picture by Ed Sykes/SWpix.com – Copyright: x xSWpix.comxt/axPhotographyxHubxLtdxEdxSykes/SWpix.comx SWP-2137-0001
Following their relegation, the club’s fortunes have seemingly turned with new owner Matt Ellis being the man responsible for much of that. His drive and ambition has seen them land a new head coach in Daryl Powell, sign some quality players and he’s helped oversee the development of their new stand.
That’s now seen them placed as heavy favourites to win the Championship, priced as short as 4/11, and with such an impressive squad it’s no real surprise.
Wingers McGillvary and Lachlan Walsmley are Super League-level, whilst Max Jowitt at full-back is an incredibly accomplished player.
Half-backs Mason Lino and Luke Gale speak for themselves and the club have made a clear and concerted effort to improve their pack and become far bigger.
The club have retained 2023 signing Renouf Atoni whilst also bringing in talent from down under such as Caleb Uele and Isaiah Vagana, son of former Bradford Bulls legend Joe.
