Rugby legend visits charity ahead of testimonial match

GREAT Britain and Wigan Warriors legend Sean O’Loughlin was visiting The Factory Youth (FYZ) Zone in Manchester today ahead of his forthcoming testimonial match at the DW Stadium.

FYZ is a purpose-built youth facility, and Sean, Warriors’ longest serving player, was visiting to get a better understanding of a similar project that is being built in his home town: Wigan Youth Zone.

Wigan Youth Zone is one of the charities which Sean, the club’s longest serving player, is supporting throughout his testimonial year alongside the Emma Hoolin Appeal and Wigan Alzheimer’s Society.

Sean said: “This is a first-class facility and just what young people need to keep them active and off the streets. The staff here at The Factory are fantastic, really passionate and enthusiastic and I’m really pleased to be able to support a similar project like this in Wigan.”
 
He added that he was keen to support charities where the benefits would be shared across all age groups.

Wigan Youth Zone is the brainchild of Wigan businessman Dave Whelan who, along with Martin and Bill Ainscough, has donated over half of the development costs. Building work started on the project just before Christmas, and is due to be completed early in 2013.
 
The Youth Zone’s development manager, Simon Baker, said: “It means a lot to the young people of Wigan to see one of their heroes backing our plans – it’s a massive boost to our ambitions and we’re extremely grateful to Sean for supporting us. He’s a fantastic ambassador for Wigan and we’re hoping for a great turn-out at the game on Thursday night”.

Mark Hovell, Managing Partner of George Davies Solicitors LLP and a Director at the FYZ commented “We all want The Factory Youth Zone to succeed and really appreciate the endorsement and publicity that Sean has brought to this pioneering project and wish him all the best with the Wigan Youth Zone.”

Sean has played for the Warriors for a decade, making over 250 appearances, since making his first team debut for the side in 2002. He is a product of the Warriors’ successful Academy and Reserve sides after joining from local club Wigan St Pats.

Sean had the honour of lifting both the Challenge Cup in 2011 at Wembley and the Grand Final Trophy at Old Trafford in 2010 as Club Captain.

Sean’s testimonial year is being led by a committee of supporters, including George Davies’ sports lawyer Matthew Chantler, and a range of events are being held throughout the year.

Matthew commented “I’m a big fan of Sean and was delighted to be appointed secretary of testimonial committee”

His testimonial match will take place on Thursday (Jan19) at DW Stadium in Wigan, against Huddersfield. The kick off is 8pm.
 
Tickets are still available for the match. They are £15 and £5 and are available from the box office or at the ground on the night..

Read more about George Davies' involvement with The Factory Youth Zone.