WITH Father’s Day fast approaching, two players hopeful of representing England at Rugby League World Cup 2013 have named their dads as the number one influences on their Rugby League careers.
Wigan forward Lee Mossop and Huddersfield’s in-form centre Brett Ferres will both be pushing for a place in the 17 for this Friday’s International Origin clash with the Exiles at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
As well as earning him another international call-up, Mossop’s performances in the Cherry and White of the Warriors this year have also attracted the attention of the NRL, with Parramatta Eels landing the Cumbrian’s signature for 2014.
But the 24-year-old says his career might never have got off the ground had it not been for the support of his dad.
“My old man was actually a Rugby Union man, but he played a huge role in my decision to start playing the sport as a kid,” he said.
“Even when I was very young he was always closely following my career and giving me all the encouragement in the world.
“I’ve been lucky enough to rise through the ranks since then and have had the honour of representing my country, but I can still count on him to give me a call the day after the game and pass on a little feedback on my performance.”
Mossop’s England teammate Ferres was also encouraged to take up the sport by his dad, but despite growing up a ‘Cas lad’, the Giants star revealed he learnt to love Rugby League on the terraces at Headingley.
“I was born and raised in Castleford, but my old man took me to watch Leeds when I was young, which will probably get me in trouble with a few of the Tigers fans!
“He was the biggest influence over my career as a youngster by a long way and I still talk to him about my game to this day.
“I have some great memories of standing with my dad at matches. Even then it was a real family sport.
“It’s nice to see families on the terraces at Super League games, and I hope more youngsters are introduced to the sport at Rugby League World Cup 2013.”
A ticket to a match at Rugby League World Cup 2013 makes the perfect gift for fathers this Sunday, with a tremendous family atmosphere across all games guaranteed.
Tickets are now on sale for RLWC2013, with 55% of tickets priced £20 or less.To make sure you will BE THERE buy now at www.rlwc2013.com/tickets or call our 24 Hour Ticket Hotline on 0844 847 2013.
Plus, got a twitter account? Be sure to enter our twitter competition to be in with a chance of winning a signed England Rugby league world Cup 2013 ball, signed by coach Steve McNamara and Captain Kevin Sinfield. To enter simply tweet the answer to the following question: In which city will England Rugby League face Australia at the RLWC2013 Opening Ceremony on October 26? Tweet your answer inc. #RLWC2013 to enter. Entries close at 12pm today. #Worldcupweds
