Swinton Lions, one of the most successful clubs in Rugby League history, has had a turbulent time since leaving their old Station Road ground in 1992. Numerous ground changes and boardroom turmoil have led to the club's nomadic existence in the last twenty years; it's only been because of the club's loyal fans that the Swinton Lions survive today.
The dream of one day coming back to Swinton is still alive, and thanks to a recent takeover, which includes the Swinton Independent Supporters Trust electing two directors on the board of four, it may be a reality before too long.
Games this season are taking place at the quaint Sedgley Tigers ground in Whitefield, a short hop from Swinton, with the new club motto being "For the time being we might not play in Swinton, but that doesn't mean we can't have a club which represents Swinton".
The Lions go into the season with high expectations and a squad full of local talent under the leadership of the former Scotland international John Duffy who has had a long and distinguished career playing for Salford, Widnes and Leigh.
The club are holding their official shirt unveiling this Thursday (26th February) at the Swinton British Legion and anyone is welcome to go along and have a chat or a photo with the players and coaches, and talk the future with the board. There will also be a presentation depicting the history of the Swinton playing kit.
The season kicks off with a League One Cup tie against Hemel Stags on Sunday 1st March (3pm) and the first league game is on Friday 3rd April, at home against North Wales Crusaders (3pm).
Swinton Lions Kit Launch
Thursday 26th February 7:30 pm
Swinton British Legion
3 Cheetham Rd
Swinton
M27 4UQ
Free admission
For further details and information see www.swintonlionsrlfc.com
Follow the Lions on Twitter @swintonlion
Words by Gareth Lyons
Photos by Pete Green
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