Warrington Collegiate awards Fellowship
The close association of Warrington Collegiate and Warrington Wolves has been recognised by the awarding of a Fellowship to Tony Smith, Head of Coaching and Rugby at Warrington Wolves.
Graham Murphy, Curriculum Manager for Sport, Leisure and Recreation said “Tony Smith’s recognition as a fellow of Warrington Collegiate is just another example of how Warrington Collegiate values, recognises and supports our links with the local community. Tony had a fantastic season last year, with the team just missing the top accolade, but for the College our relationship with Warrington Wolves remains top class. We are passionate about continuing to expand and develop our community links such as those exemplified by Tony and the players at Warrington Wolves”
The ceremony at the college was attended by distinguished guests including Professor Peter Harrop, Pro-Vice-Chancellor at the University of Chester and Stephen Broomhead, Chairman of Warrington Wolves and a former Principal of Warrington Collegiate. Warrington Collegiate was represented by Colin Daniels, Chairman to the Corporation, Frank Hardman, Clerk to the Corporation and Alison Gallacher, Course Leader and Lecturer in Sport. Gary Skentlebery, Chairman of Warrington Town FC also attended representing the close sporting association between Rugby and Football in Warrington.
In presenting the Fellowship to Tony Smith, Principal Paul Hafren said, “Warrington Collegiate is delighted to award Tony Smith a Fellowship of the College in recognition of the achievements of Warrington Wolves over recent seasons. Under Tony’s leadership and his pursuit of excellence, the Wolves have inspired many people in Warrington and created a sense of pride across the town. This is the Collegiate’s way of saying well done and thanks”.
Receiving the Fellowship Tony Smith replied “It’s a great honour for the club really, as I’m accepting this on everyone’s behalf. It’s recognition of what we’ve been achieving for some time now as we’ve been growing and trying to build, so it’s a great honour for all of us and we are very appreciative. It’s nice to have partnerships like we’ve got within the town and it takes a combination of these to breed success which is what we are trying to do and are building towards as a club, so to tie in with the Collegiate is fantastic. We’ve had a great relationship with the college over the years and this ties us in even closer.”
After a champagne reception, Tony Smith, Paul Hafren and guests enjoyed a celebratory meal in Buckley’s, the college’s fine dining restaurant, with service from Catering and Hospitality students.
