In an exciting announcement, the Halifax Panthers have unveiled their leadership team for the 2026 season, aiming to build on their fifth-place finish in the Championship. This is a crucial moment for the club as they look to enhance their performance after a rollercoaster journey last season.
Despite starting strong and topping the league table in early May, the team faced a severe downturn, going through a rough patch that saw them win none of their seven consecutive games. This unexpected slump dropped them to eighth place—a significant setback from their promising start to the season. However, showing remarkable resilience, the Panthers rallied in the latter part of the season, clinching victory in nine out of their last twelve matches, which ultimately propelled them into the finals.
As they gear up for 2026, the Panthers are determined to reclaim their spot at the top of the table even though early favorites like London Broncos and Oldham pose significant competition. The club has been proactive in strengthening their squad with notable signings including Tanguy Zenon, Dan Okoro, and Jesse Soric, the latter joining from the NRL.
Additionally, the Panthers have confirmed their captaincy for the upcoming year, appointing Ben Crooks, who brings a wealth of top-tier experience to the role. Crooks, a former Super League Young Player of the Year, has been with the Panthers since 2023 and has made 43 appearances during his tenure. He will be supported by two vice-captains: Adam O’Brien, a player with extensive Super League experience, and Tom Inman.
At 32 years old, O’Brien boasts over 150 Super League appearances, primarily with the Huddersfield Giants, adding depth and knowledge to the squad. On the other hand, 23-year-old Inman made his senior debut in 2022 with York and joined the Panthers the following year, having already contributed 62 appearances for the club so far.
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Proudly announcing that Ben Crooks will lead the Panthers once again for the 2026 campaign, guiding the team with determination. Congratulations also go out to Adam O’Brien and Tom Inman for continuing their vital roles as vice-captains for their hometown club as they embark on this new journey together.
