Toronto Wolfpack confirm new head coach as club answers fans’ concerns
Toronto Wolfpack have confirmed Matt Wyles as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming Canada Cup at Lamport Stadium.
The former Super League side announced their return earlier in May, with the later confirmation of nine fixtures at their home ground from July through until October against teams from the United States, Jamaica and Canada.
Toronto Wolfpack had previously confirmed their plans to be involved in the North American league, before withdrawing to focus on their own ‘destiny’ and competition.
The Canadian club have not played since their 42-6 win over Washington DC Cavalry in the Canada Cup in September 2021.
A statement on their new head coach read: “Matt Wyles has been an integral part of the return of your Wolfpack with his vast knowledge of the game.
“We are looking forward to his expertise in the 2023 Toronto Wolfpack Canada Cup season.”
Welcome our new Head Coach to the Den!
Matt Wyles has been an integral part of the return of your Wolfpack with his vast knowledge of the game. We are looking forward to his expertise in the 2023 Toronto Wolfpack Canada Cup season.
Give a howl to Matt in the replies!
🐺🖤🐺 pic.twitter.com/BCiWzj9ZRB— Toronto Wolfpack (@TOwolfpack) July 3, 2023
The Canada Cup was introduced in 2021, and will kick off in 2023 on July 8 as Toronto face Copperheads.
The remaining eight fixtures include opponents All Stars, Whistler Wolves, Atlanta Rhinos (twice), Jamaica Hurricanes, Tampa Mayhem, DC Cavalry and Jacksonville Axemen.
Toronto Wolfpack respond to concerns
Following their announced return, many fans remained sceptical about the side, with season tickets on sale for the upcoming fixtures.
Toronto admitted they ‘could do better’ and responded to some questions via their website.
“We are not the same Wolfpack you previously knew,” one answer read.
“In 2021, we bought the image and branding from the previous owner.
“While we maintained the team name and logo, we are a completely different club–logistically, financially, and operationally–than the one that was under the former ownership.
“We are not associated with that era of the Wolfpack in any way. We are your new Toronto Wolfpack.”
Toronto also say they will be announcing their new team ‘very soon’
Confirming their ownership further, another answer stated: “In 2021, Gary Sloane and his business partner purchased the Wolfpack with the intention to bring rugby back to Toronto and back to its fans.
“Unfortunately, just two weeks after the first match, Gary’s partner passed away.
“As you can imagine, this was an unexpected and devastating time. Nevertheless, Gary was determined to honour the memory of his former partner, so he teamed up with Adam LaTour to continue the mission that they started.”
READ NEXT: Where are they now? The inaugural Toronto Wolfpack squad from 2017
FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app