Dear Supporter of our Great Club,

It is a pleasure to write to you in advance of next year's Bet Fred Super League Season in support of our season card offerings. Much has happened during 2021 which we would all like to forget.

Covid has affected our lives in so many ways. Besides death and illness it has altered the way we live and work and it seems very unlikely that we will return to the “old normal” for some time to come- if ever. It also disrupted our team immeasurably - including a 24- nil loss and a heavy fine by the RL. Whilst this hurt, providing they are consistent we should not complain.

The excessive number of injuries added to our ability to field a team that didn’t over rely on Academy and loan players.

The new coaching team was much heralded in the press last year and many expected instant results which were not forthcoming. To be fair to Ian (Watson) his promise to the board was to build a team which would win trophies but that wouldn’t be achieved in his first season. I still believe strongly that our recruitment for next year is unbelievably exciting alongside our younger players that are gaining valuable experience week in week out.

I am certain with the changes he has made, the players recruited and the strength of the Academy he will fulfil his promise.

I would like to say something about the general state of the game. Its quality and speed has increased; the facilities at grounds (with exceptions) has improved immeasurably and, relatively, the price of admission has decreased. Your board are proud that our season cards are, and have been for a number of years, the least expensive in the Super League.

Despite this the number of fans decline each year. Undoubtedly TV has played a part but that cannot be the whole reason.

Without the financial contribution of a few individuals our game would die. Ken (Davy) is our benefactor. We’ve had his support for over twenty years and we should all be extremely great full . He will return as Chairman once he achieves the structural changes to the sport he believes are necessary. We do though need to increase our support of him in the stands on the terraces on our travels to other grounds.

The board recognises it needs updating and are actively looking to recruit and rejuvenate.

I feel more must be done to make the game more attractive. Cricket has reinvented itself, we should do the same.

Here are a few of my own thoughts. 1. All SL games have a video referee. 2. Like the NRL each side have one opportunity to question a referee and retain it if his/her decision is overturned. 3. Women’s games played as curtain raisers. 4. “Roses”competitions reintroduced. 5. Annual televised competition for fittest/fastest player. I would much appreciate your suggestions.

I’m am really excited about next year's season as I know silverware is within our grasp. Thank you for being a valued member of the Giants family and please renew your support of the club with a season cars purchase and encourage as many of your friends and family to join you in doing so.

Best wishes,

Keith Hellawell

Chairman