May 1, 2023

Trinity announce Gale signing

Wakefield Trinity is delighted to confirm the signing of 2017 Man of Steel, Luke Gale, until the end of the 2024 season.

Starting his career at Leeds Rhinos, the 34-year-old built strong foundations in another part of Yorkshire, featuring heavily for Doncaster throughout the 2008 season, making 34 appearances, scoring 30 tries.

His successful time under then-head coach, Ellery Hanley, attracted interest from Rugby League’s top division, Gale eventually signing on the dotted line for Harlequins Rugby League before a move back to West Yorkshire saw his time at Odsal with Bradford.

After three years with the Bulls, Gale moved to Castleford, where he became a household name at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle. Following a successful debut season, in which he scored 205 points and was awarded the Albert Goldthorpe Medal, Gale was promoted to acting captain in the 2016 season following an injury to Michael Shenton.

After impressing in his first two seasons at the Jungle, Gale played an integral role in the side’s maiden Grand Final appearance, scoring a last-gasp drop-goal in Castleford’s 23-22 semi-final victory over St. Helens, falling just short to the Rhinos at Old Trafford.

His performances in 2017 did not go unnoticed, though, picking up the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award for his sublime displays throughout the course of the season.

Throughout his career, Gale has become a constant figure across the Super League, moving on to Leeds Rhinos in 2020 before a stint with Hull FC in 2022, picking up multiple England caps along the way.

Gale will now head to the Be Well Support Stadium, signing a new contract with Trinity to keep him at the club until the end of next season.

Speaking on the arrival of the halfback, Wakefield Trinity head coach, Mark Applegarth, said,” I am delighted we have secured Luke until the end of the 2024 season.

“We have brought him in to direct the team around the field and bring some leadership alongside Mason. He is a player who has been at the top and knows what it takes to play at this level and get results consistently.

“We believe that Luke will play a vital role at the club over the next 18 months as we rebuild the playing group, leading some of the younger players around the field.

“I am looking forward to working with him and we thank Keighley for their cooperation.”

Whilst Gale is looking forward to joining up with the playing squad as we gear up to Friday’s game against Warrington, “I’m really looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead and getting started with the lads.

“There are plenty of talented players in the group and I’m hoping my leadership and voice can guide the players around the park so the likes of Mason Lino can play off the back of that.

“Having played at Belle Vue many times, I know the fans are passionate and love their rugby.

“Our sole focus now is getting back on the field and putting our best foot forward which starts this Friday at Warrington.”