14/01/2025
Wigan forward George Hirst has told Roughyeds fans he is ready to hear his name chanted again, as the popular young forward returns to Boundary Park with the World Club champions this weekend.
The 23-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough year with Oldham in 2024, playing an integral part in the run to the League 1 title and earning his dream Super League move as a result.
Hirst will start the season back at Boundary Park on loan but will wear the cherry and white of Wigan in Sunday's big friendly against his old team-mates.
His development marks a stunning rise from the community game three years ago, and Hirst told Roughyeds TV he is ready to do everything it takes to make his mark as a professional.
"It's going very well at Wigan so far, it is a big step up from where I was before but I'm enjoying it," said Hirst.
I think I have settled in well and am getting the gist of things now. It is tough and a lot more intense but I am enjoying it and that is the main thing. I just need to keep cracking on and wait until I get my first Super League game.
I'm at an age where I have to make a decision. Is this what I want, stepping up? I need to take my chance now and keep cracking on. All the Oldham lads congratulated me when I heard the news, I've had messages from the likes of Mo, Jordan, Joe to see how I'm getting on. It has been all positive, no backlash."
Hirst is expected to be given an early chance to impress his new club when Wigan head to Boundary Park for Sunday's friendly, with head coach Matt Peet telling The Boundary Line that Hirst will be involved.
"I'm excited for this game and hopefully I get given a shot. It will be a big game and I think it will be a tough game with some of the signings Oldham have made. They are going to have a good crack against us and it is a game everyone should get along too as it will be big.
They have signed some big players with a lot of experience and a few young lads. Josh Drinkwater is a big half coming in who will work well. Matty Ashurst and Gil Dudson are very experienced heads and I think a lot of the young lads can pick their brains a bit and I think it will be a good fight for places again this year.
I'm excited to hear the Oldham fans being loud again. I've not heard the fans for a long time so hopefully I can hear my chant once more."