Hull KR owner Neil Hudgell has spoken of his pride as the Super League champions prepare to face Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge on Thursday. The match, to be held at Hull FC's stadium with 25,000 tickets sold, marks a remarkable turnaround for a club that has faced financial ruin and relegation during his 25-year ownership.
Hudgell recalled the lowest points, including crowds of barely 1,000 at the old Craven Park, which had a greyhound track and a single food kiosk. "Everyone knew each other by name because it was more akin to a religion of habit rather than any sense of belief you could go on and achieve something," he said. "We've waited a hell of a long time for this."
The club's revival culminated in a historic treble last year, their first trophies in 40 years. Hudgell, who invested millions into his boyhood club, said the success made the years of struggle worthwhile. "I would have always said no right up until the day we completed that treble. We now have a legacy in the history of the sport and the city of Hull."
Hull KR face an uphill battle against heavy favourites Brisbane, especially after a surprise defeat to promoted York Knights in their Super League opener. But Hudgell is focused on the opportunity to become the first world champions from Hull. "To lay a World Club Challenge on top of that, for Hull KR to be champions of the rugby league world … well, that's immortality stuff isn't it?"
