2020 Chris Hill Testimonial Brochure
2020 Chris Hill Testimonial Brochure 2020 Chris Hill Testimonial Brochure
- Page 2 and 3: £5Mto run our services7days a week
- Page 5 and 6: FOREWORD BY LEE BRIERSFOREWORD BY W
- Page 8 and 9: IN THE FIRST RUN OUT OF THE SEASON,
- Page 11 and 12: WIRE LEAGUE DEBUT
- Page 14 and 15: Strength conditioning andeducation
- Page 16 and 17: We at Total are a friendly Company
- Page 18 and 19: CHRIS HILL IS AN ABSOLUTE WARRIORON
- Page 20 and 21: CRSBuildingRoofingcrs_building_roof
- Page 23 and 24: MIKE COOPERHilly’s an all round l
- Page 25: To have been able to share the fiel
- Page 28 and 29: YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS FORPROFESSIONALP
- Page 30 and 31: PROUDSPONSORS OFOFFICIAL TESIMONIAL
- Page 32 and 33: HAT TRICK HEROHilly’s 3rd try cel
- Page 34 and 35: Proud to supportChris Hill during h
- Page 38 and 39: THE WARRINGTON WOLVES BOARDOF DIREC
- Page 40 and 41: YOUR N0-NONSENSERECRUiTMENT PARTNER
- Page 42 and 43: THE LONG ROAD TO SUCCESSBy Chris’
- Page 44 and 45: MY STORY....By HillyHistorically a
- Page 46: 2010 saw Ian Millward take over. I
- Page 49 and 50: The 2012 Challenge Cup win was prob
- Page 51 and 52: After 8 years with Leigh, he finall
£5M
to run our services
7days a week
400
families looked after
24
hours a day care
Can you help us
Make every moment matter?
Derian House Children’s Hospice has been caring for seriously
ill children and their families from across Lancashire and
Greater Manchester for more than 25 years.
We help children whose lives are too short, to create happy
memories in an environment of fun, respect and high quality care.
But we can’t do it alone.
It costs £5 million to run our services every year and with less than 12% of this coming
from the government, we rely heavily on the generosity of our community. Thank you for
your support.
Visit www.derianhouse.co.uk to find out more
Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn
Derian House Children’s Hospice, Chancery Road, Chorley, PR7 1DH
Registered Charity No: 1005165
A huge thanks to all who
contributioned towards
the testimonial brochure.
The Chris Hill
Testimonial Team :
Carl Bennett
Dave Ditchfield
Gavin Hepherd-Hall
Mandy Howard
Andrea Morley
Victoria Proven
Special Thanks to:
Neil Ashurst
P & B Pictures
Programme Editors
Dave Ditchfield
Mandy Howard
Programme Design
gud spellin produkshuns
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means
without the written permission of the testimonial committee. Although every effort has been made to ensure
the accuracy of the contents of this brochure, the committee cannot accept responsibility for any errors,
inclusions or omissions. Any contributions expressed are the views of the contributor themselves and not
those necessarily of any club or institutions previously or currently to which they are associated.
The Chris Hill Testimonial In association with
FOREWORD BY LEE BRIERS
FOREWORD BY WAYNE BENNETT
I was elated to hear that Chris had been awarded
testimonial by the RFL.
I can’t think of anyone more deserving.
I had the pleasure of coaching him in the English
Rugby league team through a number of
series in England and Australia.
He is what I love about Rugby league. He is a guy
that plays the toughest position on the field and
he’s done it for a long time, with Warrington Wolves,
England and Great Britain.
That’s his ability - to do his best; week after
week, year after year.
I found him to be person of strong character
and committed.
I spent a lot of time with him over those years and I
always enjoyed his company. I knew I could rely on
him both on and off the field.
We built a strong relationship and there wasn’t
a test team that was picked, where he wasn’t the
starting prop in my coaching time with him.
I knew what I’d get from him and I knew the players
had great confidence in him which showed a great
respect to him.
England were beaten in the 2017 World cup final in
Australia by 6-0 by the Australians, I thought it was
his finest game ever for England.
If England had won, I have no doubt he would have
won man of the match.
He rose to the occasion and led from the front.
He’s a great team member I never had any
problems with Chris, and players relied on him. He
has a great rapport with everybody.
So I urge you all to get behind his testimonial year
and give him what he has given rugby
league, that is your best!
•
PROUD TO SUPPORT SHAREHOLDER
CHRIS HILL IN HIS TESTIMONIAL YEAR
Four people with one dream. To give the people of Warrington
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IN THE FIRST RUN OUT OF THE SEASON, THERE WAS A
GUARD OF HONOUR TO WELCOME CHRIS HILL TO THE FIELD
TO CELEBRATE HIS TESTIMONIAL YEAR AT THE WIRE.
There were also debuts for new front men Robbie Mulhern and Rob Butler.
Wire opened the scoring just four minutes in, Widdop found space on the left edge to stretch his legs and
shifted it over to King through the hands of Currie to go over in the corner. Ratchford slotted over his first
kick of the evening.
Their second score came after eight minutes, this time Blake Austin’s cross-field kick was claimed high by
Charnley to score in the corner. Ratchford’s conversion pulled just wide of the posts.
Lineham then made three tries in the opening quarter of an hour after Gareth
Widdop’s clever looping cut out pass found the winger free to go over in the
corner. Ratchford added the extras.
The Centurions hit back half way through the first after Gerrard crashed
over from close range under the posts. Ellis slotted over the kick.
Warrington’s reply came seven minutes later, the ball was shifted out to
the left flank and King’s clever dummy sold the on coming Leigh
defence for Lineham to then bundle his way over in the corner.
Ratchford was unsuccessful with the conversion.
A fifth for the Wire came after half an hour, a short ball from
Danny Walker allowed Hill to go over between the up rights
for a moment to savour on his testimonial day. Ratchford
then added the two.
Warrington started the second half much like they did the
first and notched up their sixth try four minutes after the
restart. After Widdop was held up miraculously by Wire
loanee Keanan Brand, Ratchford’s cross field kick was
spilled and picked up by Thewlis to score with ease.
Ratchford was wide with the two.
Leigh’s reply came after 51 minutes, Thomas Spencer
broke well for the visitors allowing Brierley to cross next
to the posts. Ellis kicked the extras.
Lineham then sealed his hat-trick after 63 minutes.
A loose final pass bounced kindly for Lineham who
stretched over in the corner. Widdop couldn’t convert
the kick.
WARRINGTON 34 (26)
Tries: King, Charnley, Lineham (3), Hill, Thewlis Goals: Ratchford (3)
Ratchford, Charnley, Wrench, King, Lineham, Austin, Widdop, Hill, Walker, Mulhern, Robson, Currie, Philbin
Interchanges: Ashton, D.Clark, J.Clark, Mamo, Thewlis, Butler, Doro
LEIGH 12 (6)
Tries: Gerrard, Brierley Goals: Ellis (2)
Brierley, Roebuck, Brand, Thornley, Tierney, Mellor, Ellis, Mason, Hood, Ioane, Foster, Hellewell, Thompson
Interchanges: Wildie, Gerrard, Peteru, Wallace, Eaves, Sidlow, Spencer
WIRE LEAGUE DEBUT
ALL THE BEST HILLY
FROM EVERYONE AT
Strength conditioning and
education facility In Leigh owned by
Micky Higham. With over 20 classes
every week & 8 Week lifestyle
challenges regularly running.
www.facebook.com/tryfitnessleigh
MICKEY HIGHAM
Chris Hill - Mr consistent
I first remember Chris playing for Leigh,
thinking this lad needs to play superleague very
soon. 12 months later he signed for Warrington and
we become travel partners which I drove nearly
every day for 4 1/2 years, (he used to love me
driving in our little silver Peugeot).
I remember his first game - Huddersfield away.
He got a late call up after playing reserves 2 days
before and played for the first team. He never looked
back, going on to International honours that year too.
Rightly so.
It was a pleasure to run out to battle along side
him every week in the primrose & blue, being
teammates, but it’s become just as much, if not more
of a pleasure, to call Chris one of my closest mates,
and my family and his family are all really close too.
Along side winning a Challenge Cup with Chris,
was the real highlight & becoming his daughter
Niamh’s godfather. This is something I’ll
always be grateful for, and cherish, especially having
2 boys and myself & Kate not having a girl. This was
special.
Chris truly is the ultimate professional - not only on
the field with his consistent performances, but also
off the field, being a dedicated father & husband.
And while busy with the rugby and 5 kids... yes
5 kids, he’s still made time to set up successful
business to provide for his family for the future.
Chris, I wish you every success in your
testimonial year. You do truly deserve everything you
get.
I can’t wait for you to finish off at Leigh Centurions
so I can make you look good again. You can also
buy all the coffees you owe me from over the years .
Take care Love and best wishes
Micky, Kate, Harry, Alex X
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Regards
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Lomax
Lomax
Managing Director
Mike Lomax Lomax
Managing Mike Director Lomax
Mike Lomax
Managing Mike Lomax Director
Managing Director
Total Steelwork & Fabrication Ltd
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ASHTON SIMS
I have been lucky enough to play with
and against some of the best players
in the world for the last 15-20 years.
There is a select few that stand out
from the rest, and hand over heart,
one of them is Hilly. I only got to play
3 years with Chill, but his passion,
dedication, honesty and integrity made
him not only an outstanding rugby league
player, but an excellent husband, doting
father and an all-round bad arse friend.
Enjoy your day, enjoy your moment,
I love you mate and look forward to
catching up for a Guinness in the near
future.
Bash.
CHRIS HILL IS AN ABSOLUTE WARRIOR
ON THE PITCH AND HIS CAREER AT THE
WIRE IS TRULY INSPIRATIONAL.
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I first come across Hilly in a pre
season game when Warrington
played Leigh, he was outstanding.
We played against them again the
following pre season and he was
even better, so I knew it wasn’t a one
off the year before. He stuck out like
a sore thumb, I thought he was
definitely Superleague material.
I was delighted when Warrington
signed him at the back end of 2011.
He was still a baby then but he
wasn’t content with just being in
the squad - he trained like a mad
man and forced his way into the
team. Such was his rise at the Wire.
In just over a year there, he had won a
Challenge Cup and was the starting
prop for England.
ADRIAN MORLEY
I left Warrington at the end of 2013,
but I can’t remember him having
a bad game, his consistency was
absolutely incredible.
In my opinion, the added responsibility
of the captaincy was a great move
by the club.
I’m made up Hilly has been granted
a testimonial.
All the best with it pal. X
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JAMES GRAHAM
I’ve had the pleasure of playing with Chris, for our
country, more times than I can remember and
I loved standing beside him every time we did.
Each time we were front row partners, I knew going into
each test match he would never back down and had
no regard for any reputations of opposition players.
The best way to describe Chris is like a BMW 730,
He’s a workhorse!!!
He’s the type of player everyone loves playing with.
Never missing the little things like kick pressure
and would always be there to take the tough carries
when needed, helping create opportunities for
others.
I think Hilly drew the short straw a few times, and
had to put up with me as his room mate many times
on tour. But for me it was always fun and brings
back lots of good memories. When we first met
I remember him declining the offer of a sauna because
he had to do ‘admin’. I later found out that
as well as being a full time rugby player he also
runs a plumbing business (which in sure will be
advertised heavily in this brochure).
I couldn’t help but try dig a little deeper, and still to
my amazement, someone could be watching him
on sky at the weekend then have him round in the
week fitting their bathroom! I guess this just shows
the type of character he is.... All about money!
Joking of course - this just shows, despite being one
of the biggest names in Superleague he is a down
to earth, hard working lad. No doubt these qualities
have made him the player and person he is today.
It’s not all fun with Hilly though!
In Brisbane after the World Cup Final in 2017 ,
I genuinely had to check into another
room, as his snoring just became too much.
It’s hard to describe just how bad it was! At
breakfast the following morning he saw me and
with a confused look on his face he asked where
I had been? I just shook my head in disbelief.
In all seriousness, getting to know him on camps,
playing ‘would you rather’, exploring just what he
would do for certain amounts of cash and watching
YouTube clips on repeat have been an absolute
pleasure over the past decade.
Congratulations on the testimonial and the career
so far mate.
You have been one of the best front rowers of
a generation and are a great bloke away from
the field too.
Looking forward to a beer with you soon
Jammer
MIKE COOPER
Hilly’s an all round leader.
His career on the field makes him one of the best
British players in the Superleague era.
His off field drive and determination has always been
the same - a leader on the field, in business and most
importantly for his very proud family.
I’ve been close mates with Chris since joining
the club. It’s a pleasure to play along side him
each week. We have had some unbelievable
memories and I’m looking forward to many more!
He’s first on my list of blokes I want in the trenches
and for me that speaks volumes.
All the best mate, for a thoroughly deserved
testimonial year! Enjoy each second and continue
to make your family proud!
Let’s all get behind his testimonial year and give him
what he has given rugby league - that is his best!
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CONGRATULATIONS HILLY ON YOUR CAREER SO FAR.
LOOKING FORWARD TO WHAT’S YET TO COME!
To have been able to share the field with
Chris, as both an opponent and a team mate
with England and Great Britain, has been
nothing short of an honour.
Tough, strong, skilful and aggressive,
Chilly is the ultimate modern day prop.
A massive inspiration in the way he
transitioned from a championship player to
one of the worlds best, he paved the way
forward for anyone in the lower leagues to
make it to the top.
Not only is he a great player but most
importantly he’s a great person off the field
too and no doubt a mate for life.
ALEX WALMSLEY
WEMBLEY 2019 BY CONNOR HILL
It’s cup final day down at
Wembley stadium, as Warrington
Wolves take on St Helens in one
of the biggest games in history!
I had just woke up and I was
getting ready for the game. I was
very excited but nervous as my
team Warrington were underdogs
for this big game.
I haven’t seen my Dad for a
couple of days because he
went on the coach with the
Warrington team as he plays
for them.
A couple of minutes later, the
coach arrived. He was a bit late as
there was so much traffic about.
As we got closer to the stadium,
the tension raised; we could see
both sets of fans singing and
drinking in the pubs before
the game.
The weather was great for this
big occasion - it was about 30
degrees, which is hot for England!
As we entered the stadium it
felt like my ears drums were
bleeding, it was that loud. As
the game kept getting closer the
tension was raising very quickly.
The game was about to start I
could see my Dad walking out of
the stadium tunnel - as he does
every game, he picks a piece
of the grass and throws it up.
The game had only just kicked
off and there was chances by
both teams but it was still 0-0.
Its half time now and its 12-0 to
Warrington!
As soon as we scored our first try
the Warrington fans went mental.
The other try by Warrington was
right on half time.
The second half has just began
and St Helens have started the
half really strong. Warrington on
the other hand, haven’t had the
best of starts in the second half.
There’s 10 minutes left of the
game and it’s 12-6. St Helens
scored right at the start of the
second half - it was coming.
Warrington haven’t looked like
scoring but St Helens did and
they have done.
There’s 5 minutes left.
I’m getting so nervous because
there is only a try separating
the 2 teams, Warrington are on
the attack the fans are shouting
‘’GO ON’’ everyone’s out of their
chairs shouting Warrington on.
2 minutes left and... YESSSS
...we go over the try line and
everyone’s going crazy as
everyone thinks we have won
the cup.
I’m crying with happiness I’ve
never experienced anything like
this in my whole life!!!
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Chris has been, and continues to be, a fantastic
player and leader for Warrington Wolves and
an inspiration to many within Rugby League.
I have got to know Chris over the years
and he has always been an outstanding
professional.
His long service is testament to his loyalty,
dedication and professionalism. We are very
proud to have him at Warrington and I wish
him all the very best for his testimonial season.
STUART PEARCE
PROUD
SPONSORS OF
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PARTNER OF CHRIS HILL
WORKWEAR
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Hilly was one of my favourite Front
Rowers to play alongside during my
career!
His endurance ability, short passing game
and footwork was a combination you rarely
see for a big man.
We have shared some wonderful moments
together on the field and created long lasting
memories off the field with our teammates
and families.
Congratulations on your testimonial mate,
enjoy!
Cheers Gids
KURT GIDLEY
HAT TRICK HERO
Hilly’s 3rd try celebration in the 72-12 victory
over London Broncos at the HJ in 2014.
From Hilly’s first day, it was clear we had picked up a
special talent. He had plied his trade for a number
of years with Leigh, earning a reputation as the best
forward in the second tier, so came with a bit of a wrap.
Pre-season is a tough gig, and Hilly would have
been allowed time to get up to speed, but he didn’t
need it, his fitness was unbelievable, with big, thick
forearms and a neck like a bull, he was always one
to avoid when wrestling!! These physical attributes
and a desire to consistently improve, formed the
foundation of his career to date. A career where his
performances have had a very narrow gap
between his best and worst.
Hilly just went from strength to strength, and quickly
became an important player for Wire and England.
It was always a pleasure to play with Hilly, his
consistency was reassuring, providing confidence
to those around him in the same way
Super Benny and big Moz did. This had him down as
the first name on the sheet for me.
Off the pitch, Hilly is a good family man with Kathryn
and the kids ever present, along with his mum and dad,
enjoying the highs and getting him through the lows.
He comes a very close second when it comes to the
tightest I’ve played with - Higham is still the master!!
Congratulations on your testimonial Chill, much
deserved mate.
Simon Grix
Chris initially played for Wigan St Pats, a year above
his age group, in the under 8’s and played that well
that no-one would have known he was only 6 at the
time!
When I started to coach the Wigan St. Pats Under
7’s, it took me several years before I could persuade
Chris to play at his own age group, and join my
under 13’s team, where he then played alongside
his current team mate Stefan Ratchford.
Chris was a welcome addition to strengthen our pack.
He always gave it 100%, and his determination to
succeed was evident in those early years. Chris played
for me for 2 years before joining New Springs Lions in
Aspull, where he went on to sign for Leigh. My cousin
was an avid Leigh fan and would report back that
Wigan had missed out on a very good player that was
improving all the time.
He got his deserved Super League debut with
Warrington following in the footsteps of the great
Mike Gregory. I have met up with Chris several
times, the last being at a MENCAP charity do where
he was the guest speaker. It’s nice to know that
Chris has not just had a very successful Rugby
League career that has resulted in England and
Great Britain honours, but that he is a great person
both on and off the pitch.
Oh, and by the way, my wife Carol said thanks for
sorting the new bathroom lol.
Mike Carney - Former Wigan St.Pats Junior
Coach.
I first met Chris when he signed for Leigh at
16 years old, I was coaching the under 18s
Academy at this time. Chris had signed for the club,
along with 20 other players who were meant to be
the club’s under 16s Academy, but unfortunately,
the team was refused entry into the under 16s
academy league and all the players had to step up
and play for the under 18s, which was a massive step
up, playing against lads two years older than you.
Unfortunately quite a few of the players found this
step up hard , but not Chris - he was made captain
of the team and always lead from the front
playing in the front row at 16 years old at that level was
unbelievable, especially when he signed for the
club as a centre. He went from strength to strength,
and it was clear at an early age what he was going
to achieve later in his career. It did not surprise me
one bit when he soon got into the first team at Leigh
Centurions and all coaches at the club knew that it
was only a matter of time before one of the big clubs
came in to take him to another level. That club was
Warrington, where it has been a privilege to watch
him turn into one of the finest props the country has
produced. It has been fantastic watching him win
silverware at Warrington and also represent his
country. This has made all the coaching staff that
worked with him at Leigh very proud.
I am delighted that he has been rewarded with a
testimonial year and I hope it is very successful,
despite these testing times. Many congratulations
Chris and good luck for your future.
Kevin Anderton Leigh u18 Coach
I met Chris as a 16-year-old at Leigh in 2005. He was
a very shy lad around a group of super league players
who had already achieved in their careers. The thing that
struck me with Chris is that he wasn’t phased by anything.
He exhibited confidence in his own game and his
physical ability.
I remember after completing a very eventful
preseason warm weather camp in Spain, we played a
near full strength Wigan side at a packed out Hilton
Park. On the way to the match, a car full of players had
a car crash and were unavailable for the game. Chris
had to step up, and in typical Hilly fashion he absolutely
smashed it. He was my stand out player, leading from
the front, setting a great platform for a young Leigh team.
It’s been a pleasure to watch Chris grow as a player,
husband and father over the years.
I had the pleasure of spending time with him at the
World Cup in 2017 and was extremely proud to witness
him play for England in the final, and how he handled
things in typical Hilly fashion, still leading from the front.
I’d like to congratulate Chris on his achievements in
the great game of Rugby League and wish him all the
best for his testimonial. Although I can’t be there, I’ll
certainly be raising a beer in his honour from
New Zealand.
Tony Benson
Proud to support
Chris Hill during his
Testimonial Year
c i vilsandgroundworks.com
HILLY’S DREAM TEAMS
PLAYED WITH
PLAYED AGAINST
Brett Hodgson
Joel Monaghan
Kallum Watkins
Ryan Atkins
Ryan Hall
Lee Briers
Rob Burrow
Adrian Morley
Mickey Higham
James Graham
Sam Burgess
Super Bennie Westwood
Sean O’Loughlin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Billy Slater
Manu Vatuvi
Greg Inglis
Jamie Lyon
Jermaine McGillvary
Jonathan Thurston
Benji Marshall
Matt Scott
Cameron Smith
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves
Jamie Peacock
Boyd Cordner
Gareth Ellis
THE WARRINGTON WOLVES BOARD
OF DIRECTORS WOULD LIKE
TO THANK CHRIS HILL FOR HIS
10 YEARS SERVICE, HARD WORK
AND COMMITMENT TO THE CLUB.
WE WISH HIM EVERY SUCCESS IN
HIS TESTIMONIAL YEAR.
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THE LONG ROAD TO SUCCESS
By Chris’s Father, Dave
It is with great pleasure and pride
that we have been asked, as
parents, to talk about Chris’s
Rugby career.
It all began at the tender age
of 5, with me his mum dropping
him off for his first training
session with St Patricks under 6s,
even though Chris was only 5.
We only realised I had taken
him to the wrong age group,
during his first game, and by that
time it was too late to do anything.
Chris played on the wing that first
game and scored a full length try
(well that’s how we remember it).
The family spent every weekend,
including Grandma, on a field
in all weather, splitting our time
between watching Chris and
his older brother Marc, both
who played for the Deanery High
School during the week and their
individual Sunday league teams.
Due to Chris playing above his
age group, it meant that he played
for Wigan Town teams twice at
under 11s, and two years running at
under 13s.
He represented the then newly
formed Wigan and Leigh Town
team at under 15s in a season
in which they won every game.
Chris always wanted to play
rugby. He was very driven and
passionate about the game,
having coaches who were
inspirational along the way.
Academically, Chris worked hard
at school but it always came
second to Rugby, it became his
whole focus. I came from Bury
so had never seen a Rugby ball.
His Dad a “pie eater” played,
but never pursued it as a career
finding women and drink more
interesting!
He played a year above his age
group until he was 13, when
during that season, he became
ill with a viral infection that affected
his joints and prevented him from
playing sport for over 3 months.
His determination to recover was
second to none and he soon
regained his level of fitness and
determination to be the best he
could.
During this time he decided a
change of team would help progress
his development, so a drop
down to his own age group and
a move to New Springs Lions
was the best option. The team
camaraderie at New Springs was
excellent and Chris’s ball handling
skills improved immensely,
resulting in a position change
to stand off. This team made it
through to the club’s first cup final
in 2003, against a very good St
Patrick’s team. Unfortunately they
lost that game but the achievement
toreach the final and put in such a
great effort was a credit to each and
every player.
During this time, Chris had moved
from Wigan scholarship to Leigh
favouring the more personalised
coaching methods. Turning 16
he signed for Leigh academy and
the journey took on a new level.
After playing 2 seasons in
the academy, he signed a 2
year deal with Leigh, and played
his first Super league game
against St Helens, in the final
game of the 2005 season - coming
off the bench to gain a taste of top
level rugby. 7 seasons at
Championship level proved
an invaluable apprenticeship
for Chris, that would stand him
in good shape for what was later
to become a meteoric rise in the
game.
During his second season in the
first team, Chris was selected to
represent the under 18s England
academy, with the first game to be
played in France. Unfortunately,
this was only one of a hand full
of games his Dad has missed
throughout his career, something
Chris never lets him forget!!!
Chris worked part-time in a gym
during his time at Leigh,combining
a diploma in sports science to
supplement his income. During this
time, Chris never gave up on his
dreams of playing Superleague
rugby, and as parents we always
believed he was destined to play
top level rugby.
His commitment to Leigh never
wavered - seeing them win the
Northern Rail Cup on two
occasions, the latter final in 2011
against Halifax seeing Chris score
a second half try to bring the
Centurions back into the game.
A try in the dying seconds sealed
the game.
Fantastic memories of such a
wonderful day in Blackpool.
In 2011, Chris’s dreams were
realised when he was linked to
various super league clubs,
with Chris finally signing for
Warrington. As a family we were
overwhelmed with pride, as rugby
had become a way of life for the
whole family, girlfriend, children,
brother, grandmas, future In-laws,
aunties, the whole extended
Hill and O’Neil families.
Chris then went back on loan to
Leigh for the remaining 2011
season.
Writing this now makes us feel full
of pride and the usual tears
from “ Mum”
We feel Chris opened the gates
and showed all championship
players to never give up, that top
level rugby is always possible.
The 2012 season turned out
to be a season beyond all our
expectations, with a challenge cup
winners medal and an international
call up for England. Chris has never
got carried away and has always
been level headed, also thinking
and planning his future after
Rugby.
Chris attended college doing his
plumbing course, subsequently
starting a business with Christian
his business partner, who he met
while at college. In August 2019 he
realised his ambition of opening
a bathroom showroom in
Warrington with 3 other partners.
Chris went on to Captain
Warrington in 2016, which was
a momentous day, following
in Adrian Morley’s footsteps,
who he always aspired to.
As a family we
have followed
Chris home and
away, Grandma
being that eager
to get to Leeds
one wet Friday night, that she
went in her “slippers” much
to the delight of her great
grandchildren who pointed it
out to anyone who would listen.
As a family, we have followed
England Rugby League to
Australia on two occasions, the last
time in 2017 for the World Cup, with
wife Kathryn joining us in Brisbane
30 weeks pregnant with their 4th
child. It was a real family affair, with
Kathryn’s Mum, Dad and brother
enjoying touring Australia and
watching the rugby. Memories that
as a family will never be forgotten.
Chris is a family man with strong
family values which he instills into
his now 5 children, Connor 12,
Oliver 8, Niamh 6, Iris-Kay 3 and
our latest edition Oonagh-Mae
3 months old.
Behind every successful man
is a strong, understanding and
supportive woman. Kathryn,
Chris’s wife has followed Chris
(with all kids in tow) all over
the country and even to the
other side of the world. He couldn’t
ask for a more understanding
wife.
We can say without hesitation, we
have had the time of our life. It has
bought us, as a family, so much
pride and pleaure, meeting
wonderful people both on and
off the pitch. Chris’s love and
passion for the game of rugby
shone through from the age of 5
and still shines as bright today.
Watching his 2 sons play Sunday
League I think we will be doing it all
again!!!!
MY STORY....
By Hilly
Historically a part of Lancashire, but is now within
the Metropolitan Borough of St. Helens, Billinge
Hospital is where my story starts on
November 3rd 1987.
Born to Dave & Carol and residing in Whelley,
Wigan, my brother Marc got to meet his new
brother, two years his junior, soon after.
The club had some players who went on to
professional careers, Joel Tomkins and Chris
Ashton played alongside me at St Pats, and the
town team where I continued to play the
year above from aged 11.
I loved the game, and still do, but back then
I’d play for the town on a Saturday (playing
up a year), then town my own age or St. Pats on a
Sunday – a lot of running around for my parents,
but I was having the best time.
I Primary Schooled at St Caitlin’s then on to
the best high school in Wigan town, Deanery
Church of England. They had a rugby team and I
joined in pretty early and was made captain. We
were unbeaten through years 7, 8 , 9 and 10.
One Tuesday evening my mum saw an advert for new
players for a team at Wigan St. Pats, and she
decided to take me down to Robyn Park for
training. I was 7 or 8 at the time.
I was understandably a little uneasy at
the start and ended the session frustrated as
every one of them were bigger than me!
Then it all made sense! A couple of the lads
training were chatting and came to point
something out to my mum, I’d been training with the
wrong age group, one year above where I should
be – no wonder I was apprehensive!
The coach at the time was Steve Frost (and his
son who played, also Steve Frost) were family
friends, so I returned the following week; I stayed
there, playing up a year until the under fifteens.
I also played for school and so could play up to
four times in a week. I knew this was my sport.
I’d captained my primary school football team but
with two left feet I knew
picking up a
ball and getting
smashed was the
future!
Wigan had a
scholarship and
development
program running
and I was looking
to move forward, so
was excited when my
dad said that Dean
Bell wanted to have
a word with us about
my future.
We sat down and this is
where the story of my
professional career would start.
Dean Bell said he didn’t think I was good enough
and should go back to play amateur and
work on my game.
I was 15 – and sought out a new route to get
my dream to play rugby league for a living.
There was a new club being set up and a few of
my mates and I went to see what it was like .
Steve Frost was no longer the coach at St. Pats
so I was happy to find a new club. Paul Renoux,
Mark ‘Moz’ Leigh and Andrew Melling (dad was
the coach), among others, headed over to Aspull
New Springs where I played in my own age group.
Benson came in as head coach. We stayed full time
and my wages shot up to £12,000 a year and £200 a
win (still nothing for a loss).
In 2006 we won the Northern Rail cup which was my
first medal.
I was working part time too, with Stephen Grainey
who owned a gym with Leigh’s conditioner,
Martin ‘Dogger’ Rowden, and as many players do,
I wanted to get into personal training.
This was perfect as they both understood
training commitments and time issues to get my
level 3 qualifications.
I stayed working at the gym until I left Leigh.
In 2007, I was picked for England at under 18s, with
Rob Draper from Widnes.
We were the first two lads from National
Conference to play for the team with the likes of Sam
Burgess. We played France in France then there
were two tests against the Aussies, in which I played
the first.
I stayed a year with the club, and then a few of the team
were approached by Leigh Centurions and
joined their scholarship and development programme
on a Tuesday and Thursday.
In the early years at Leigh I was a back rower.
In 2005 at 17, I had an offer to sign for Leigh from
Stephen Grainey, the football director, who offered
me £3000 a year....
I snatched his hand off.
Back then it was an extra £50 winning bonus and
nothing if you lost. At this time, Leigh were in
Super League. I was in the under 18’s team
and was asked to play up to the u21s. There
were changes at the club with Darren Abram
moved from head coach replaced by Heath
Cruckshank.
In 2009 Paul Rowley became the head coach, which
brought a more expansive way to play.
I then found myself on the outside and not
being picked. During this time, I was contacted by
Gateshead Thunder, through Steve McCormack,
to join them the next season.
The irony of this is we played them on the last
game of the season, they beat us to relegate us.
History shows that we weren’t relegated as
Gateshead had to withdraw from the league and
Leigh were able to stay up.
Leigh were about to face St. Helens in the league and
Health called me to say I’d be playing in that game.
WOW!
I started on the bench and we took a pasting
from Saints, but I was playing in Super League!
I recall my first interaction was Nick Fozard who
shared his big arms and knees all over my face!
Steve Maiden and me shared his car to training each
day as I hadn’t passed my test. When I did, it was time to
be designated driver to Warren, Brains, Stevens and
Danny Speakman. I’d pick them up from
Tesco car park and Warren seemed always
to be asleep on his bags on the floor with one boot, a
pair of shorts and a packet of cigarettes.
The following year, after relegation, Tony
2010 saw Ian Millward take over. I really got along
with Bazil, and in 2011, we’d played Batley on a
Thursday on TV, and we got stuck in traffic. We just
got there in time before it was pulled from the TV
schedule. We won the game despite the poor
preparation and on the way home my agent, Ron Hill
called me.
I was on the pitch after 30 minutes and stayed on for
the rest of the game.
I was still part time at the club and gym and I needed
to make a decision as a father of one, do I find a trade
and do the rugby as a back up?
Ron called, “Warrington want to sign you, tomorrow!”
There was a real sense of urgency about it and it was
a yes from me.
Then Huddersfield called and said they were
interested!
The offer was similar to Warrington but I was invited
down to watch their next game, versus Warrington.
Kathryn and I chatted, and the travel would be an
issue. We wanted to stay where we are for the family,
so I said I wanted to take the Warrington offer.
I met with Warrington’s Neil Dowson at Leigh,
with Bazil, and signed the contract. I‘m sure
Bazil helped shape the move as he was good
friends with Warrington’s head coach, Tony Smith
Soon after, we were to play in Blackpool at the Arriva
Train Cup Final and I was keen to finish the year off at
Leigh. I was loaned out to Leigh for the rest of the
season and we picked that trophy up with a late try.
I was back and to to Warrington for some training while
still playing for Leigh, as I was a Warrington player,
and stood me in good stead for when I was to start the
following year with the likes of Adrian Morley, Garreth
Carvell, Matt King and Mickey Higham, who I knew
well anyway.
So my time at Leigh was over, and the fond memories
I’d gathered, as I headed to Warrington and
pre-season in Australia!!!
Emirates were the club sponsor, so off we
went for three weeks training – and that’s
when I made my Warrington debut. At
Redfern Oval against South Sydney Rabbitohs.
We won which made us world champions in a
pre-season kind of way.
The season started, and I couldn’t break into the first
team. Tony Smith asked me to play in the under 21st
against Huddersfield on a Thursday, just to get some
game time and of course I said yes. The following day
Tony rang me to say Gaz Carvell was ill and would
I fancy sitting on the bench – “YES” was my reply!
We played Huddersfield away the following
Saturday, and I took the bus and sat on the bench,
still aching from the previous game.
That was my first game – and I never looked back.
I started almost a dozen times from the bench then
became a first team starter.
I started in the Challenge Cup Final that year against
Leeds, and Kylie Leuluai knocked me out in my first
carry! I often remind him of that! I couldn’t remember
the first 15 minutes of the game!
I also started in the Grand Final that year, so from
leaving Leigh, to pre-season in Australia, and then
starting in both major finals , my first year was a bit of
a whirlwind.
To cap it off I was selected to join the England Knights
at the end of the year to play France.
But the best yet was to come....
It was a proud first season as a Wire for me; winning
the Challenge Cup final, losing the Grand
Final but being the starting prop in all three end
of year internationals was a dream come true
– I’d turned 25 and I was living my best life!
My International career began pretty quickly after
signing for Warrington.
Steve McNamara, the England coach, rang me
and asked to join the senior squad for the Autumn
International
Series.
I was playing in the 9’s when Steve
McNamara asked me to play in the first team,
against Wales and France - a couple of the lads
had gone out injured. I ended up rooming with Gaz
Ellis – surreal, as I’d followed Gaz’s career and now I
was waking up and having breakfast with him!
(who were put into a room alone) and questioned
as to why she was travelling alone with children.
In New Zealand, against Tonga, I
experienced the best game I’d ever played in. The
atmosphere was electric and the crowd was
deafening for the full 80 minutes. Afterwards, the
Tongans congratulated England and then went
out partying and setting fireworks off in the street.
They know how to party!
The game the week after was disappointing
but I had the best game of my career.
The World Cup Final Defeat at the hands of
Australia.
This bloke was a legend of rugby league and someone
I looked up to massively. He played in the NRL for a
number of years, was probably on mega money, and
there was me, probably on a 20% of what he was
earning, sharing a room with him!
I made my debut at Racecourse Park in Wales.
I had a good relationship with Steve and from
then was never out of the team.
During the Tri-Nations in Australia, we needed
Samoa to win by less than 4 points. We knew it
would be Australia v New Zealand in the Final, so we
call went out for a few drinks (never expecting to be
in the Final). We were all called back in by Steve, just
in case Samoa pulled it out of the bag. We watched
on TV and Samoa didn’t – the team drip-fed out and
ended up in the bar again!
The World Cup stands out for me. Warrington weren’t
brilliant in 2017 – even though we’d had easy games
at the end of the season, we finished in the middle 8s.
Usually, players are tired after the long season,
so going to the World Cup fresh was a bonus, it
was the best I have ever felt and I performed well.
I had the best 7 weeks on that tour.
Wayne Bennett is brilliant at running camps. He provided
a masterclass in basic running rugby – 80s style.
He knew what the lads needed and didn’t mind if they
went for a drink the night before games. He didn’t want
anyone that hadn’t been picked, moping about, so we
all trained together, then all went out after the game.
It really was the most enjoyable 7 weeks.
While I was over in Australia, Kathryn (heavily
pregnant) decided that she and the kids would
come over. I told her to check with the doctor
before booking, just to make sure it would be ok.
Both her mum and dad and my mum and dad were
out there already, so she would be on her own. My
mum and dad offered to fly home after the Quarter
finals to travel back with her, but she flew over
before they got chance to change their flights.
The flight over wasn’t without stress – at Dubai
Airport, she was taken away from the children
I won a few things with England, and playing New
Zealand at Anfield was a highlight, but sadly, didn’t
win the big one.
I always tell people not to take going on tour for
granted. I know we all miss our families, but it is an
unbelievable experience. Being with each other 24
hours a day, in each other’s pockets forges a bond
that can’t be broken.
I’m still part of the ‘Friends for Life’ Whatsapp group
from my touring days.
They are memories I’ll take with me forever.
Great Britain didn’t win a game, but it was
unbelievable. That was what I’d always
wanted to do – to pull on that shirt was the
pinnacle for me and my family. If I never play for
Great Britain again, I’ve achieved what I wanted to.
The 2012 Challenge Cup win was probably the most
special win as it was the first year I’d been
at Warrington.
The Grand Final loss still hurts though.
Another highlight was being named as Captain of
Wire.
I was out in Tenerife with the lads, warm weather
training. We had been out on quite a heavy
session the night before and I was still in
bed when Steve Price knocked on the door,
asking to see me. Thinking I was in trouble for something,
I got up, showered and went downstairs (still
under the influence!) to reception to meet Steve, who
told me that he had decided to make me Captain.
I was very proud and grateful to be given the
opportunity to Captain the side, and to lead the lads
out for each match.
Beating St Helens in the Challenge Cup in 2019
was amazing.
We were the underdogs that day and that
suited the team. All the pressure was on Saints.
Lifting the cup as Captain, was unbelievable.
We all went back to the hotel to celebrate – Stuart
Middleton and Simon Moran had arranged a free bar.
Stef Ratchford, Mike Cooper and I were still
drinking in the reception at 7.30am, still in our suits
as we hadn’t been back to our rooms. A bit later,
a load of Chinese tourists came and started taking
photos of us – even though they didn’t have a clue
who we were! Kathryn came down for breakfast with
the kids – the lift door opened, and there we were!
She wasn’t impressed at all, fuming in fact, and
apparently, the kids were all embarrassed. Kathryn
had to grab all my things and get them onto the coach.
We went back to the stadium, drank all night then out
again.
I finally went home to be told I couldn’t wear my suit for
the parade as it wasn’t fit! It was brilliant to see all our
fans along the way as we paraded in the open-topped
bus,and in the Town Hall grounds when we got there.
Then we went out again!
FAMILY FIRST
By wife Kathryn
I met Chris when he was 18 years old, back when
he was playing for Leigh.
It was his first full season with the first team, having
made his debut for them the season before in Super
League.
Even though he was the youngest lad there, you
couldn’t tell, it was like he’d been with them for
years. That’s the type of person Chris is, outgoing,
friendly and loyal, fits in wherever he goes.
After 8 years with Leigh, he finally he finally got to
make his dreams come true and signed for
Warrington Wolves, where he’s spent that last
10years of his career playing.
It’s been a whirlwind 10years professionally for
Chris, with many ups and downs along the way:
4 Challenge Cup final appearances, 2 wins, 4 Grand
Finals appearances.
England and Great Britain call ups. 2 world Cups, a
World Cup final and 3 Dream team places.
We as a family have also grown over his time at
Warrington.
We have 5 absolutely beautiful children Connor,
Oliver, Niamh, Iris-Kay ( the famous one that sky
announced to the world she was coming!!! ) and
Oonagh-Mae who made her quick appearance
during lockdown.
Chris might be tough on the field but he’s the softest
giant at home with the kids,.The boys are following
in their Dad’s footsteps and love playing rugby and
football, the girls are all Daddy’s little girls who love
brushing his hair
THANK YOU
Firstly I’d like to thank my family
for all the support throughout, not
just the 10 years at Warrington, but
my career to date. The times my
parents didn’t want take me to Oldham
on a Sunday, knee deep in
mud, but never moaned.
The day my dad had to comfort
me when Wigan released me at a
young age, trying explain it’s not
end of the world.
Now the boss Kathryn. She’s put up
with some s**t - too much to explain
in this brochure, but one thing she’s
always been is solid; by my side win
or lose, she’s there and I thank you
so much for what you do for me and
what you allow me to do for my
rugby career.
On to this amazing club that took
me in 10 years ago from Leigh with
open arms. I’ve loved every minute.
Special thanks to owner Simon and
all the sponsors over the years,
especially Carl Bennett, who’s been
my sponsor from day one!
To my testimonial team, who
worked tirelessly in difficult times to
get the events and my testimonial
match on too.
Thanks to Carl Bennett, Gavin
Hepherd-Hall, Mandy Howard,
Andrea Morley, Victoria Proven and
finally our svengali Dave Ditchfield -
thank you for everything - each and
every one of you.
Lastly to all the amazing Wire fans
for supporting me over the 10
years.
You’ve been a massive part of me
staying this long - the club is built on
the back of every single one of you.
Thanks again.
Hilly
the design team
behind the
chris hill testimonial
w w w .
gud spellin
produkshuns
. co . uk