2005 for Wakefield Wildcats not only saw the departure of Gareth Ellis to Leeds Rhinos but also saw the departure of the whole squad to the sunnier climates of the Algarve, Portugal, where they will start their pre-season training at Browns Sports & Leisure Club for the 2nd consecutive year. On New Year’s Day Wakefield Wildcats flew out of Leeds/Bradford airport to Faro where upon they were warmly received by their hosts Browns still in a celebratory mood.

Sunday the 2nd January 11.00am, Wakefield’s 1st pitch training session, the sun is shining, temperatures rising to a glorious 18 degrees centigrade and the players are chomping at the bit to get the session started, especially with such superb playing conditions. Coach Shane McNally is looking confident and relaxed as the 5 day training camp gets underway and he is looking to reap the benefits for the forthcoming superleague season. Wakefield will once again be aiming to finish in the top 6 and repeat the outstanding performances of last year’s play-offs.