Oldham’s players are feeling the buzz of a new era for the club, with the exciting growth in attendances giving the team a huge lift in their pursuit of promotion to the Betfred Championship.
That’s the view of experienced prop Craig Kopczak, who returned from injury with a powerful display in the Easter derby win over Rochdale that saw a crowd of 2041 – the biggest home league gate for an Oldham game since 2008.
The 37-year-old former Super League front row says there is a feel-good factor around the club, since last year’s takeover and move back to Boundary Park.
And, in an exclusive interview with Roughyeds TV, Kopczak has revealed how he hopes to play a big part in Oldham’s resurgence.
“The players see a lot of fans turning up again, passionate fans wanting your autographs and merchandise,” said Kopczak, after the 2041 Easter Sunday gate at Boundary Park.
“It helps us out there and gets a buzz around the place. The feel-good factor around the place is really good right now.”
The former Wales international works at a South Manchester school during the week and admits he could have retired rather than signing his final professional contract with the Roughyeds.
“It was part of a journey coming here. Being a local lad and living round here it was something I wanted to achieve locally and get this club back to where it can be.
“When I spoke to the club they sold it to me and I want to get this passionate club back up to where it belongs.
“I’m enjoying things off the field with my job but it is rugby and you are a long time retired.
“My body says a different story after a game but my head and my heart say no – I live and breathe rugby league, it is what I have always known, a passion of mine, and I want to get this club to where it wants to be, which is Super League.
“It is a long journey, but we are putting things in place. We need to take it game by game and get this competition won first. There are still things to work on but we are building nicely.”
