At long last we return to Stadiwm CSM in Colwyn Bay on Sunday for our final home game of the regular season and I thought I would use this opportunity to share some of my thoughts heading into the game.
Firstly, given our points advantage over Rochdale, a win against London Skolars would probably see us clinch the final play-off place.
Given the adversity we have faced this season, that would be an incredible achievement - League One is a very competitive league and with the teams around us it is no given to make the play offs so Carl and the lads need all the backing possible from you our amazing fans to clinch that final play-off place.
We will also see Jono Smith grace the hallowed turf tomorrow, in what has been a tough year for him and his family and it will be great to see him doing what he does best on the pitch in a Crusaders shirt again. I am incredibly proud of Jono.
Also we say a fond home farewell to Rob Massam who will probably be playing his last home game. Rob has been a loyal servant for us and is also North Wales Crusaders leading try scorer - Rob will be big boots to fill and I would like to thank him for his services and wish him and his family well.
Off the pitch, the North Wales Crusaders Foundation has been a shining beacon for the club this year, the work that has gone on within the community has been remarkable and a big heartfelt thanks has to go to Jon Burgess and Nick Settle.
North Wales Crusaders women led by Becki Davies have been a remarkable achievement, to have a 100% winning record in their maiden season is just truly amazing and everyone involved with the ladies’ team should be extremely proud as we are proud of them.
The North Wales Crusaders Wheelchair teams have been the trail blazers in putting wheelchair rugby league on the map in Wales. I've been observing their progress this season, with participation levels ever growing in this sport, it’s great we have two competing teams which can only be good for the development for the national side.
Also we will see North Wales Origin in action before the main event, and with North Wales having a structure (although in its infancy) I am encouraged to see new players play rugby league for the first time. North Wales Crusaders will always back local talent and hopefully provide a pathway for local players into the first team, as Alfie Matthias proved earlier this year.
2023 will be a year to remember mostly for how difficult it has been, but I would like to thank our supporters for sticking with us in what has been a unprecedented year, but let's all make a big effort and let's push for a final play-off place.
See you tomorrow
Andy Moulsdale (North Wales Crusaders CEO)
Commentaires