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Toronto Wolfpack have already been a breath of fresh air for rugby league — and they’re only just getting started.

The Canadian club are walking through League One in their debut season after recruiting well — but the most exciting aspects for me are what we’ve seen happening off the field.

For the Wolfpack’s first year they’ve had fantastic crowds — 7,247 watched their game against Hemel Stags last weekend.

The club is already taking rugby league into new markets, their media coverage so far has included articles in the New York Times and Esquire magazine.

(Image: Toronto Wolfpack) (Image: Toronto Wolfpack)

One of the biggest pluses has been seeing Canadian youngster Quinn Ngawati feature in the last two matches — and I’m sure there will be more where he’s come from. They’ve come at everything from a new angle and that’s been really refreshing.

We’re at a time in this country where the game probably needs some glitz, glamour and a shot in the arm — and if Toronto can work their way up to the top division they could provide it.

It’s good for the game that we have people with real enthusiasm to grow the sport, set a clear plan out and then deliver on what they’ve said.

Realistically I don’t think this season could have gone any better for them. They’re undefeated in the league, have attracted big crowds and ran Salford close in the Challenge Cup.

(Image: Toronto Wolfpack) (Image: Toronto Wolfpack)

There have been some people against it, but that’s the same with anything.

The Wolfpack haven’t been transported straight into Betfred Super League, they’ve done it the right way from the bottom, and it will be interesting to see how they go on their next step up in the Championship.

I love change, enthusiasm and clubs that bring energy to the sport, and Toronto have definitely delivered all of that.

And all of this has been happening while they’re playing in the third tier. Imagine what could happen if they do reach Super League.

(Image: Toronto Wolfpack)

Anybody can be sceptical about these things, but in the nine months so far they have absolutely delivered on everything they said they would — crowds, performances and media exposure.

If they do get into Super League, they could really mix things up further.

Rugby League is taking the World Cup to America in 2025, and if we’re serious about cracking the North American sports market — which we should be — then Toronto is the first step along the way.

* Betfred — Passionate about Super League