Praying for Pride to thrive
“DEARLY beloved.”
These were the first two words Greg Dowling relayed to his sponsors to open the Northern Pride 2017 season launch on Saturday morning at Whitfield Chapel.
One could see the symbolism in the obscure but iconic location for such an occasion, perhaps with the CEO hoping 36 players can battle through the Intrust Super Cup armwrestle to answer his prayers for results as the club forges a new era in its 10th anniversary year.
Dowling has pledged for a better game-day experience for families visiting Barlow Park in 2017 but success this season and beyond ultimately hinges on the culture new coach Ty Williams can develop between his players on the field throughout the year.
Northern Pride chairman Tony Williamson backed up his CEO in reinforcing the proud culture of this “rugby league heartland” and the responsibility of the players to make it work.
“Don’t stuff it up” were his exact words to the 2017 squad, referring to their opportunity to appease and influence sponsors, fans and the community while wearing the Pride jersey.
Despite a raft of changes from 2016, Williamson said staff and players were all relishing the challenge and excited to grow the Pride brand.
“Don’t be afraid of change. It’s the ones who adjust to change best who thrive,” he said.
The words from Dowling and Williamson were no surprise to coach Ty Williams, who told the crowd of sponsors about his squad’s eagerness at forging a new era for the club.
“Our squad is young, enthusiastic and they’re excited about the year ahead,” he said.
“We respect the previous players and staff and what they’ve done for our great club, but we also understand within ourselves it’s time for us to create our own culture and our own legacy.
“We won’t make any outlandish statements about where we will finish this year, but this squad has belief and confidence in what we can achieve this year.”