Sam Powell: testimonial man

2023 promises to be a special year for Wigan Warriors hooker Sam Powell. He is set to begin his eleventh season at his boyhood club and will celebrate a testimonial year granted by the RFL.

From his days in the Warriors academy and reserve grade to making his first team debut in 2012, it's been quite the journey for Powell - and one that's gone by in the blink of an eye.

"It's flown by, it's gone really quick," Powell told Wigan TV.

"But I'm very happy I get the opportunity to enjoy a season what's a bit of a celebration for myself."

Amongst a host of events to celebrate his testimonial year, Powell and the Warriors will take on Salford Red Devils for his testimonial game as part of both teams preparations for the upcoming 2023 Betfred Super League campaign.

"That's massive for myself and my family. It'll be a great occasion and one I'm really looking forward to. We're going to play Salford on the fifth of February and to have it at the DW is really special.

"I've grown up there as a kid watching Wigan play there, so to have a game there for myself and having my family and friends watching is superb. I can't wait for that."

?? 10 years
? One-Club man
? Heritage Number 1041
? 5 major honours
? 250 games
? 40 tries @SammPowell will celebrate his Testimonial year in 2023 ?#WWRL pic.twitter.com/EbnAofGXPs
— Wigan Warriors ??? (@WiganWarriorsRL) November 18, 2022

Amid the planning and delivering of his testimonial year that will be littered with events throughout 2023, Powell is first and foremost focused on performing well for the Warriors.

He endured an indifferent season in 2022 - missing out on the Warriors' Betfred Challenge Cup Final victory through suspension, as well as spending time on the sidelines injured.

Now, he's determined to ensure that he puts his best foot forward for himself and the Wigan club in 2023.

"My first job is to play well for Wigan. I'll rip in during pre-season and I'm hoping it's going to be a very successful year.

"I'm still learning loads and that's the most important thing. I'm learning and I'm enjoying it. Last season was very frustrating being injured and then banned. I'm hoping this season's going to be great. I'm focusing on improving and being consistent."

Powell knows that a career in rugby league can be short lived. Thankfully, under the guidance of head coach Matt Peet, he's being given the chance to dip his toes into coaching - something that Powell hopes can be a pathway to a new career when his playing days come to an end.

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Tickets for @SammPowell's Testimonial game against @SalfordDevils on Sunday 5th February are on sale!

Tickets available are for the West Stand only and are unreserved. Get yours today ?#WWRL https://t.co/S4Z3Xxoc69
— Wigan Warriors ??? (@WiganWarriorsRL) November 22, 2022

"I think Matty's [Peet] come at the right time for me. I'm learning not just on the field stuff but about coaching as well, which he knows I'm passionate about. He's giving me the opportunities to go and see other teams and how they do things. He's empowering me to go and do that which is brilliant for me in my development."

Wigan Warriors take on Salford Red Devils in Sam Powell's testimonial preseason match on Sunday 5 February at the DW Stadium. You can support Sam and watch this game ahead of the Warriors 2023 campaign by purchasing tickets here.