Widnes ready for Super League challenge

Widnes chief executive Julie Gaskell says the club are ready to accept the challenge of preparing for Super League in 2012.

After receiving the good news from the RFL on Thursday, the Vikings now have 10 months to prepare for a return to the top flight next season.

Gaskell said: “Our Super League application was built on a sensible assessment reflecting steady growth over three years. Albeit, with some areas of rapid growth and innovation. For us it wasn’t just about ticking boxes it was about creating value to fans and stakeholders. Our vision is to be a sustainable and dynamic club and now we have to make this vision a reality.

“We now have a tough few months in transition and will be working hard to gear up for December 2011 and next season. Paul Cullen and his team will continue to evaluate the performance team’s strengths and recruitment will officially start when the transfer window opens in September.

“Our focus will be on recruiting and developing world-class players over the three year licence period and beyond, whilst continuing to develop and support our own talented youth.”

However, the Vikings still have a Championship season to focus on, continuing against York City Knights on Sunday, where chairman Steve O’Connor will make a half-time address to the fans.