New deals for Warrington five
Warrington Wolves’ International players Richie Myler, Ryan Atkins, Rhys Williams and Simon Grix plus local, home-developed player Matty Blythe have all agreed contract extensions at the club.
All five players are examples of the depth of British talent we have at the club and by extending their contracts and committing to the Wolves they have once again highlighted how far the club has progressed and the belief the players have in its future.
Both England Internationals Myler and Atkins have extended their existing contracts for an additional two years keeping them at the club until November 2015.
Half-back Richie, 21, joined the Wolves from Salford back in 2010 and has developed into a prolific young talent. He made his debut on February 7 2010 and has since made 51 appearances for the side touching down for 38 tries. He’s made his mark, not only in the Warrington side, but also on the international scene as a consistent and exciting rising star.
Team-mate Ryan also made his debut in February 2010 joining from Super League rivals Wakefield. He is a powerful and direct centre who is a real handful to bring down on the charge. This season saw Ryan touch down for 26 tries making a name for himself in the side.
Simon Grix has been at the club for eight years now making his debut in 2006 and has recently agreed a three-year extension to his existing contract until 2015. He is a versatile player covering the centre, back row and half back positions. Internationally he has represented Ireland alongside his brother Scott and the last few seasons have seen Simon come to the forefront of the Warrington first team and achieve regular appearances.
Welsh international Rhys Williams has agreed a one-year extension to his contract until November 2012. He made his first team debut last season against Crusaders and spent the early stages of this year on loan at the Welsh club developing as a top-flight player and has now made 14 Super League appearances for the Wolves. He has scored 10 tries in eight internationals for Wales making him the second highest try-scorer for his country. At the age of 21 Rhys is a winger to look out for the in the future progressing from the under 20s academy making his mark on the first team.
Squadbuilder developed player Matty Blythe has progressed through the club’s youth system making his debut in 2007 with 42 to his name to date. The second-rower gained experience on dual registration with Leigh Centurions and has made a name for himself this season with 22 appearances. His three-year extension keeps him at the club until November 2014.
Head of Coaching and Rugby Tony Smith said: “I’m delighted to re-sign five young British players who have had tremendous seasons and who are looking to keep on improving. It shows their commitment and the direction that the club is heading in as well as their desire for success which suits the ambition of our club.”