Warrington Wolves Prop Max Wood’s Remarkable Rise: From Unemployed to Super League Standout
Warrington Wolves prop Max Wood’s journey over the past six months has been nothing short of remarkable. The 20-year-old, who came through the academy at neighboring Wigan Warriors, found himself “out of a job” at the end of last season, with his future in the elite level of the sport looking uncertain.
However, Warrington Wolves saw the potential in Wood and offered him an opportunity, first on a six-week trial at the start of pre-season, and then an additional six-week trial after he demonstrated his commitment by dropping weight and improving his fitness. Wood’s impressive performances during these trials earned him a one-year contract with the Super League club, with an option for a further year.
“Max Wood is a great young man who has figured out what works for him now in his preparation.”
- Sam Burgess, Warrington Wolves Head Coach
Warrington head coach Sam Burgess praised Wood’s hard work and determination, noting that the young prop “is a great young man” who has “figured out what works for him now in his preparation.” Burgess highlighted Wood’s progress, from being “a bit overweight” during the initial trial period to dropping “about seven or eight kilos” and then a further “five or six kilos” to become fitter and more rugby-ready.
Wood, who hails from Bury and played his junior rugby for Rochdale Mayfield, was relatively unknown to Warrington fans when he arrived, having not made his first-team debut for Wigan. However, that has all changed, as the Wire faithful have now embraced the powerful young prop, who Burgess describes as a “natural rugby player” and “a really smart player.”
Wood’s hard work and determination have paid off, as he made his Warrington debut in a 36-10 win over Hull FC in Round Two and has since gone on to play nine games in the primrose and blue jersey, while also enjoying loan spells with Bradford Bulls and Widnes Vikings in the Championship.
Burgess sees Wood’s journey as a “good story for a lot of young men,” as the prop has proven that with the right attitude and commitment, opportunities can arise, even when the future may seem unclear. The Warrington coach believes Wood’s journey is a testament to the club’s approach of rewarding those who “do the right stuff” and maintain “good habits away from the game.”
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