PRIOR Josh Gryphon, a player for Hull FC, has disclosed that he declined offers to sign with Wakefield Trinity at the conclusion of the 2023 Super League season from Castleford Tigers and an unidentified Championship team.
After receiving a seven-game suspension for dissent during a Challenge Cup quarterfinal matchup against St Helens earlier in the season, Gryphon made the unexpected switch to Trinity.
The 33-year-old continued to play five games for Wakefield, but he was unable to assist the team in moving up to the second division.
That being said, he is still sure that he made the proper decision to join Trinity rather than the Tigers.
“I had other offers but nothing that I really wanted. I have a young family, so anything involving travel was difficult for me because I reside in Hull,” Gryphon told League Express.
“I could have joined Castleford, but Wakefield was the club closest to me.” Although I did speak with another Championship team, I believe that Wakefield was the best choice for me.
“I’m really pleased with my choice, and I’m enjoying my time here right now. Moving to a club that is dear to my heart after leaving FC has been a breath of fresh air.
After a year in the wilderness, Gryphon is also eager to return Wakefield to the place where he believes the team “belongs.”
I only have one or two years left in my rugby career, so I want to make the most of the time I have left.
Every day when I head into training, I have a smile on my face. I adore hanging out with the club’s boys and the coaching staff.
“I want to restore this club to its rightful place. Being able to participate in the Championship Grand Final and the 1895 Cup Final at Wembley and, ideally, win most of the games would be a pleasant experience.
The 33-year-old is aware that his career is coming to an end, even though he is eager to take centre stage in Wakefield’s comeback.
But when Gryphon does hang up his boots, he has ideas.
“I’ve been working on some projects for a while. My strength and conditioning degree from university was awarded to me in November of last year.
“After I graduate, I want to start strength and conditioning with a club. I feel like I can be good at it and I have a strong enthusiasm for it.
“It will continue to engage me in the game.” I don’t want to coach in the sense of being the head coach since I don’t love the game that much!
“I see myself staying in that area after playing because I enjoy training and that kind of stuff.”
