THE high regard Wigan Warriors have for Warrington Wolves' new signing Sam Powell is clear in the club's parting comments.

Powell made a try-scoring debut for Wigan against Hull FC in August 2012, and went on to play 272 games for his hometown club before confirming his two-year move to The Wire.

He joined the cherry and whites aged 16 from Wigan St Patrick’s ARLFC after spending four successful years in the club’s scholarship and Academy systems, and played a starring role in the 2011 Academy Grand Final win over Warrington.

Powell developed into a strong leader on and off the field, becoming a key member of Wigan’s leadership group and celebrated his Testimonial Year in 2023.

The 31-year-old leaves Wigan as a three-time Grand Final winner, also winning a World Club Challenge and three League Leaders’ Shields.

Wigan head coach Matt Peet said: “Sam Powell leaves Wigan having given his all every second of every day. As a leader at the club, he has made our culture and everyone around him better.”

Peet added: “I feel personally privileged to have worked with him. We wish him and his family all the best on and off the rugby field.”

Wigan chief executive Kris Radlinski said: “Sam can take immense pride in his accomplishments at the club.

“Throughout his career at Wigan, he has exhibited unwavering dedication, consistently elevating our standards for numerous years.

“His time here has not only been marked by professional success but has also fostered enduring friendships that will last a lifetime. Sam, along with his young family, will always find our door open to them.“