SUCCESS OR FAILURE!!! Featuring Big Joe Vagana.

                                     

                                    

                                                 WAS IT SUCCESS OR FAILURE??
                                                             2015 SEASON REVIEW.

Sadly the 2015 campaign didn't quite end with the prize we all wanted, and that was the return back to Super league, but was 2015 a failure? It's hard to take that once again next season we have to trudge off to grounds such as Oldham, Whitehaven, Doncaster instead of Leeds, Wigan and Saints. 

After the 2014 relegation it left us with a shortage of players so the emphasis was to build a 30 + strong squad in preparation for the 2015 campaign, at least we were able to hold onto the likes of Lee Gaskell, Adam O'Brien, Danny Addy and Dale Ferguson to name a few, with Super league quality and experience proving vital to the rebuilding of the squad and pushing for a return to the elite of Rugby league. 

The Championship proved that it wouldn't be the walk over some had predicted, Leigh gave Bradford an opening day sickener and set out there intentions firmly that they were not there to make up the numbers, especially when the Bulls really could have done with laying down the early season marker, however Leigh performed well during the regular season finishing 6 points clear after the 23 regular season games, but despite this counted for nothing. The rivalry between the 2 clubs during the campaign added some spice to the fixtures and the encounters were quite fiery too, but it was the Bulls that had the chance to make a return to SL only to miss out in the Million £ game to Wakefield. 

During the season you could say that at times the side lacked leadership and self belief of which James Lowes admitted in the post match press conferences, the front row lacked any go forward and the half back partnerships were sometimes questionable, especially with injuries to Siejka and Gaskell hampering continuity, if we are to get back to SL it's going to be more about greater quality within the squad and not so much quantity. A tighter defence is also a must in the 2016 season as too many tries were leaked and only scraping through some games onto victory. Was 2015 a missed opportunity, you have to feel that it was as Wakefield limped through SL, but former Bulls coach Brian Smith worked his magic and dragged them back by the scruff of the neck after spending most of the season in their knees. 

So back to question Success or Failure, well let's look at this way from our perspective we didn't achieve the goal of promotion but on the other hand we had the Blackpool bash which was a huge success. Adam O'Brien really shone for us, and at times its argued he was overplayed and became a target for the opposition but he really stood up this season, Danny Addy also deserves a huge amount of credit for his abilities during the campaign which has been capped off with a call up to the Scotland national side. But most of all it's the fans of the Bulls who really showed why they were the best in the division, Fans travelled in large numbers filling the coffers of other clubs and creating a truly fantastic atmosphere and sticking by there team more so now more than ever before, it's easy following a team when your winning everything in front of you, but the fans showed everyone what Bradford as a club means to them. 

Success in the fact that we stood by our club and kept the faith, when it would have been easy to walk away, Failure in not getting back to Super league at the first attempt, but as they say never give up trying and you don't know success unless you have tasted failure.

                                                            

   

2015 was also kind to BULLieve as we were invited behind the scenes courtesy of the then media executive Ryan Sparks, to see what takes place on the game day itself. It also happened to coincide with the visit of Bulls legend Lesley Vanikolo, we had a great afternoon and something that will stay with us for a long time 

                                             

                                                 

                                    

                 Jay & Tom, BULLieve meet with the big man himself this was an honour indeed.

                                A Big Man with a big heart and he never did the naked run!!

In this edition of our blog we are blessed to be able to feature one of many favourites at Odsal, a powerhouse on the field but a true gentleman away from the game, he gave his all, all of the time and we are proud to have been able to speak with him, in this edition we welcome Joe Vagana.

Big Joe arrived from Auckland Warriors in 2001, within a few months his impact on the field had made him a firm favourite, by the end of his first season, the Bulls had finished Minor Premiers, he was also part of the side that destroyed Wigan in the Grand final.

 Joe first arrived on our shores in 1993 with the junior kiwis, he was joined by a fellow kiwi and at the time future team mate Henry Paul and a whole host of up and coming SL and NRL players, 7 years later he returned with the Kiwi's world cup team that were beaten by Australia in the final. |The side had thrashed England at Bolton on their way to the final. Joe's block busting performance of that day really made people stand up and take note, the England side were not quite aware of what had hit them, there was also an altercation with Keith Senior, well we know who came out on top.

Joe's presence on the field was immense he was possessed with amazing level of skill and to be able to off load in the tackle, always tactically aware of goings on and was devastating in attack and defence.

Joe played a huge part in the clubs success, 3 World Club Challenges, 3 Super League titles and a Challenge Cup winners medal. Joe was utilised like all modern day forwards to make a impact and utilised in strategic spells. In 9 seasons with the Bulls Joe amassed 242 appearance's, 52 from the bench and at least he had the honour of scoring at least 1 try a season.   

In the Bulls treble winning season 0f 2003 and the Centenary season of 2007 Big Joe went over for 5 tries greeted by the cheers which you normally hear at the final hooter, it was not prolific scoring but the loudest cheer of all was when he converted a try against Featherstone in 2005, Joes appearance record for the club was immense, only a broken arm kept him out of the side, for 2 months in his final season meaning he only ever missed 10 games in 7 years that's some achievement.

Along with Brian Mac, Paul Anderson, Stuart Fielden, he was part of the Awesome Foursome, a pack which dominated and terrorised the whole of Super League, Joes combination with Jimmy Lowes at hooker proved a huge success and brought him the recognition he deserved from both New Zealand Samoa but you have to agree that the highest respect came from the fans in 2007, when he was voted into the "Team of the Century" against some tough opposition.

Around the time Joe was making his impact on the field there were also 2 other future prop forwards developing through the ranks in the forms of Sam Burgess and Craig Kopczack . Joe became a father figure to the youngsters and set a fantastic example for those players to look up to over his time at the club,

Both players mentioned have gone on to form great careers in Rugby league and its great to see Sam back in the game he knows and loves best. Sadly by the end of 2008 Joes no nonsense robust approach to the game was beginning to take its toll, always in the thick of battle and not one to take a backward step Joe called time on a wonderful career, he headed back home to his native New Zealand. Joe is a true gentleman of the game and will certainly go down as one of the Legends to pull on a Bulls jersey, we managed to catch up with Joe who happily agreed to chat with BULLieve and it was certainly a pleasure we hope you enjoy.

                                     

     1st home Auckland , NZ 2nd home Bradford , West Yorkshire.

Profession and educational background:

 St Pauls College , Auckland 

Years in sport of any kind:

 20 + 

Other Sports participated in: 

rugby , cricket , touch , volleyball 

Years in Rugby league. 33yrs.

Here is our 1-1 with Joe we hope you enjoy reading as much as we did chatting to the big man,

Q. In your early playing days how supportive were your parents/family. 

 Faith , Parents and Family were my main and most important sources of support to me not only in my early days but also middle and end and post !! lol

 Q. What got you started in Rugby league and if you hadn't made it as a player what would do think you would have done instead 

Local park which was 5 min walk from my home happen to be home of Richmond Rover RL Club ( #has produced more kiwi players then any othe local club 50 + ! ) my older brothers played there as well as close friends , always wanted to be a police  officer , however one of the testing requirement was to run 2.4 km in 10min 30 sec so probably would never happen haha 

 Q.  What was your biggest achievement in Rugby League?  

Umm was blessed with some Great achievements so tough to pinpoint biggest however being named in Bradford's Team of the Century was a very big honour ...why because the fans had a say which means I was doing something right if the best fans in RL choose me lol in fact the only medal that I display at my home is the cap I recieved for making the team .

 Q. How did you set your own personal goals. 

Short term and long term goals were important and always pushing limits for myself then working hard to achieve them

  Q.  What was your biggest challenge during your career and how did you manage it.

 Weight management !! I would put weight on when walking past a bakery lol . A lot of
extra training , a lot of extra sweating and bleeding and eating well 80% of the time seem to do the trick 

   Q. What did your diet consist of during your career, and what kind of training plan did you have?

No secret that weight management is 80% what you eat !! so for most times chicken , fish rice veggies and fruit etc, etc ,but every now and then those steak slices from Greggs would get me haha

  Q.  What did Bradford do different to other teams that in your opinion made them so successful during your time there. 

We had a pretty strong Family Bond / Culture as players as a club as fans , we were in it together and would happily lay our body on the line for each other . Mentality was this our house , our family .....protect at all cost ........ and we did !! 

 Q. What was the best advice you were ever given? And what advice would you give to any young player starting out today in RL. 

Believe in yourself 

 Q. Do you have a saying or motto that you live your life by?

Your ATTITUDE will determine your ALTITUDE 

 Q. Where did you draw your inspiration from?

My wife and kids, and those who go outside their comfort box to chase their dreams and against all odds come our victorious !

 Q. Now your back home in NZ do you still keep an eye out for the Bulls results and what is your advice to the fans as we look towards next season in the 2nd Tier.

Yes i'm  constantly on the T&A website for game reports and watched last game v Wakey .........so close !! There been some tough times at Odsal since our glory days but a big part of our success came down to " Belief " 

Q. The Southern Hemisphere still dominates both codes of rugby, in your opinion what is done differently in Oz and NZ that we don't do over here. 

ummm tough , 1 thing different is that this side of the world rugby / rugby league is a national sport thing where every boy / girl from when they start walking wants to play league / rugby. Over there (Uk)  its football 1st then depending where you from darts , cricket , rugby league etc . 

11. Now that you are away from the rugby field what occupies your time most these days. 

Family and Work . Any1 one with kids know its a balancing act school run , school fees , I want this , I want that .......... you get the drift lol , i'm lucky my wife and I are great team who shares the work load ..... I think I do more but ill never tell her hahaha

Q. You never had to do the run!!!! You must be pretty proud of this.

NEVER !! hahaha very proud of this still remember the days when there was a banner in the stands counting down the games for me , would've scored more but Robbie never passed the ball .

Q.  What was the team bonding like at Bradford, were the players quite close off the field and how did you prepare yourselves for the big games I;e finals, challenge cup etc. 

We were FAMILY on and off the pitch including the office staff , Groundsman , shop staff it was awesome and why I was there for 8 season. Group of us would book into Cedar Court night before go have Italian food at ( ummm forgot name think it was Ittel ) then back to hotel for poker and chill ........ seemed to work so that became our routine 

Q. You were the sole survivor of the "awesome foursome" in 2008 was it always your plan to retire after that season 

As the season went on I knew that would be my last , body was aching and there were youngsters ready to shine like Sam , Koppy and already a leader and Mr reliable Lynchy.

Q.  What would be your most stand out memorable moment in a Bulls shirt. 

Too many , but still remember my 1st jersey presentation held at that night club next to valley parade ..... went home thinking im gonna like it here fast forward 8 seasons " I Loved It "

16. If you could go back and change anything at all during your playing career what would it be. 

Wouldn't change a thing , i'm a believer that things happen for a reason !

17. Rugby league is marketed very differently in England compared to NZ and Oz, what do you think could be done to promote it more, union gets all the news and Spotlight but league seems to be a forgotten sport. 

Same here, Rugby has the backing of TV companies and people with money....
however we all know Rugby League is the better product.

                                                     

         Thank you Joe for taking time to speak to BULLieve, we all wish you well in your future.

                                                         Pre Season 2016 Game Review.

                                       

With 2016 about to get underway and what promises to be another exciting yet challenging season, there is a lot to look forward too.
Despite being beaten at Leeds just over 2 weeks ago it certainly wasn't a battering by any means, The Rhinos fielded a very strong experienced side as did the Bulls, but it was Bradford that started the game brightly and even led at half time albeit only a 2 point margin, The Bulls defence held strong for long periods of the game and improvements have clearly been made since last season, Jimmy included 4 dubutants and 2 new recruits in his matchday line up.
Bradford had several chances in the first half and were the more creative at times, after around 10 minutes of pressure on the Rhinos line it finally paid off as Kris Welham scored his first try in a bulls shirt, with Addy converting, the champions hit back though through Danny McGuire, with a neat move between himself and Tom Briscoe, and racing down half of the field to touch down  In response to this the Bulls hit back in superb form in the shape of Adam O'Brien, Sidlow had made the first break before an offload to O'Brien, then a pass to Gaskell only to return the ball back to O'Brien for a brilliant try and Addy to add the extras.
Sadly the Bulls couldn't add on any more scores after the interval, it all went to the Rhinos with Ryan Hall showing his super league class to score and giving the Rhinos the lead for the first time in the game, soon after it was Achurch to crash over after repeated pressure on the Bulls line, 2 further tries followed through Burrow and Falloon, Bradford can certainly take heart from this game despite the final scoreline of 12-26.

In the rearranged tie last Friday at Odsal, Bradford took on a very youthful Castleford Tigers, Coach James Lowes had included 5 academy players in his matchday lineup, it was the home side that made an electric start to the game, with only 2 minutes gone into the game Adam O'Brien had created a great chance by kicking over the tigers back line for James Clare to touch down and Addy converting. The Bulls really were on top form and once again it was O'Brien who laid off to Olbison and went crashing over the line, Omari Caro was the next to score in the corner, but the Tigers pulled a score back just before half time through Minikin. Into the second half and despite the youth of the Castleford side, they probed away all night asking questions of the bulls defence and applied good pressure they were rewarded with another try on 66 through Sheehan, the Bulls added to there scores through Mellor, Hooley, and Kirk with the final score 26~8.
We would also like to send our best wishes to Castleford winger Ash Robson, who whilst in the last minute of the game he ruptured his patella tendon (Knee Cap) and  now faces an 8 month lay off  we wish you well.

With so much expectation for 2016 we feel Jimmy has the right men in to do the job, many question that Richie Mathers has signed but as always only time will tell, we at BULLieve feel there is a good mix of young stars coming through as well to secure our future back in Super league, and to develop into the future.
                                                      Here are your fixtures for 2016

                                  

New Features.

Over the coming blogs and through our Facebook and Twitter, we are looking to see your memories from supporting Bradford Northern/Bulls, it can be from this current season a favourite moment well anything you want it to be that's a special memory to you from supporting our team. Send them into our Facebook or tweet us @BullsBULLieve to be sure of featuring or e mail them to bullieve@hotmail.co.uk, plenty of ways to get involved during what is to be an exciting 2016 in plenty of ways. Its your blog as much as we write this, For the fans by the fans so get involved and join in.

Keep a look out for competitions during 2016, we have recently run one there is much more to come in the coming months.

Here is me in about 2003 with my partner, its stuff like this were after seeing, or it may be a programme that has a specialmeaning, send it in and we will feature it.

                                                                 Quiz time

Over 2016 we aim to have some new features, one we have briefly touched on is a quiz on Northern/Bulls through our Facebook group, well here is the quiz again we posted in or group you may or may not have seen so here you are again, will post the answers soon in our Facebook group in due course. We hope you enjoy.

Please note that all questions include the club known as Bradford/ Bradford Northern & Bradford Bulls.

Q. In what year was Trevor Fosters Debut for the Bradford Club

Q. Bradford were one of the first teams to play under floodlights outside of London, can yo name the year and against which team.

Q. Which was the first team to nil the Bulls in Super League.

Q. Which Aussie side did Adrian Morley sign from.

Q. Name at least 4 Bulls players that took part in the Middlesex 7's tournament.

Q. After winning the Challenge cup in 2000, how many years was it since before they had won it last.

Q. Rugby league is now traditionally played on a Sunday (before sky) but it was originally a Saturday game, which year was this introduced and why are Bradford important in this inception.

Q. Name the referee in the 2001 Grand Final.

Q. Keith Mumby broke into the Bradford Side in 1973 but who resigned to give him his big break.

Q. Which year did Jimmy Lowes win man of Steel.

Q.Which year did the council plan to turn Odsal back into a rubbish dump.

Q. What is the lowest crowd ever to watch a Bradford Game.

Q. Which junior club did Ernest Ward sign from.

Q. Why did Bradford walk off the pitch in 1982.

Q. Which team did Bradford play on there first game at Odsal.

Q. Name the Coach that took the Northern side to victory in 1947 at Wembley (not one to show emotions)

And finally a nice easy one to finish.

Q. Which 2 players came to Odsal in 1985 in the transfer for Ellery Hanley, and we don't need an exact figure but what was the fee for Hanley. Nearest £10,000.


                                        HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROBBIE HUNTER PAUL

                                 

We really do hope you have a great day, don't forget if you would like a mention in our birthdays please get in touch on our social media as mentioned through this edition.

Finally don't forget where you can get all your merchandise by clicking here get your tickets and everything else you may need or want to know, we hope you have enjoyed this and we will be back again very soon with yet another former player, keep a look out and most of all please keep BULLieving!!!!!!

All views expressed are our own and in no way are they officially associated with Bradford Bulls RLFC, they do not necessarily express the views of the club but these are our own as a fans view. Thank you for reading.

Written by Thomas Fynn.

Were back and this time with a Prop Forward

                                          

                                     

      
                                 WELCOME TO OUR LATEST EDITION OF BULLIEVE

   

                                                               NEWS ROUND UP

                      INTERVIEW WITH FORMER BULLS PROP STUART FIELDEN,

                                                            SUMMER BASH

                                          FANS INTERACTION AND MENTIONS.   

                                   ______________________________________________  
                                                         
                                                             NEWS ROUNDUP

  Its hard to believe that we kicked off our season in February, and there are now only 9 rounds left until we enter into the super 8's. The first game was a fiery event against an ambitious Leigh side who are unbeaten so far this season in cup and league, so far its the only 2 points we have dropped but i'm sure after recent performances, that we can end there unbeaten season when they turn up at Odsal on July 19th.
  The season is passing on at alarming rate, and there have been some outstanding performances from the squad, and some great individual performances too, notably Adam o Brien who seems to be growing in stature week by week under Jimmy's tenure. Danny Addy is playing some great rugby, Lee Gaskell has been outstanding at full back with several man of the match performances, and the balance in the squad seems to be about right. Of course we have had new additions Steve Crossley returning home, James Mendieka signing from Featherstone until 2017 and quietly away in the background contract talks are underway building for next season for whatever league we are to play in, within the squad there are several players that committed for 2 years so were sure that should make it slightly easier moving into next season.


When you look at it in perspective, we still have some players who have not featured as yet Matty Blythe is still to feature and has been out on loan to Hemel Stags, Karl Davies has been injured and Dave Peterson who has gone on a months loan to Sheffield. I'm sure come the 8's these guys can make an impact.

                                                Our 1st Championship match at Leigh

                                   

                                                 Picture courtesy of Michael Thornes.






In our last match once again saw another Super league hopeful come up against a determined Bradford side, despite going behind in the early stages Bradford staged a brilliant fightback to take control of the game and scored 6 tries to extend the unbeaten run to 13. Adam o Brien once again being the stand out performer, this was a solid win for the bulls with Williams, Gaskell, Henry and Purtell being singled out by coach James lowes for there efforts in the backs and on the wing. There was a scare though for Danny Addy who was knocked out in a collision and not allowed to play any further part in the proceedings. Danny should be available to face Doncaster, Mendiaka certainly impressed off the bench with a solid display in the halves as cover for Addy.


With win less Doncaster next up at Odsal its hard not to see another Bulls victory, but as we have seen so far this year, each team we play seem to up there game to try to get the scalp they crave so much, there is also a ladies day this Sunday where Ladies go free in honour of Women's aid.

                                    

Don't forget if you cant make it to the shop to buy your merchandise you can check out the extensive range by Clicking Here

                     FORMER PROP AND FANS FAVOURITE SPEAKS TO BULLieve.

                                

Hi Stuart and thank you for your time to speak to us at BULLieve, we appreciate your time very much, you had a glittering career at the Bulls and we have compiled some questions for you, so thank you again.

Q. You actually didn't start playing Rugby League until you were in your teens, how did this come about, what were your influences to play Rugby league especially as you initially toyed with the idea of becoming a footballer. 

 A. I played football from the age of 8-16 for a local side, high school and also the local area. I played some rugby at high school but had no idea what I was doing to be honest. I was asked by a friends dad (Kenny Giles) to go up to a local club he coached at in Halifax (Illingworth).Which I did to the under 15’s. Just before that through him also I was invited by him to attend a rugby scheme called C.A.T.S that coached young people in the area. Through this scheme they picked a side to represent West Yorkshire. That team played the other areas in Yorkshire and through that a team was picked to represent Yorkshire in the inter county championship. I was picked for Yorkshire and we won the championship. So I would say I was lucky that my first real organised game was to represent Yorkshire. I then joined Illingworth to play for their under 15’s but also played for their under 18’s in that same year .Being involved with both teams success. 

 I was still playing football at the time too. My eldest Brother Adam had played with Brian noble for Bradford Northern and he took me along to watch my middle brother James in a trial game in 1996. He asked about me, invited me along to train with the Bulls academy and I played a few months later for them and then signed Professional forms in September on my 17th birthday.

Q. You had a fantastic career at Bradford and won virtually everything in sight, can you tell us about your time at Bradford and some of your highlights. 

 A. There’s a good yellow pages I could talk about from my ten years at Bradford . 10 years that I loved and were the most enjoyable of my career. The characters that were there made every day eventful and you would have a laugh every day at some point. I was lucky to be in a team that won at least one  trophy every year from 1999 up and to the year I left in 2006. Something I didn't really appreciate as much as I should have when it was happening. I suppose wining at least one trophy every year makes you become accustomed to it. 

The highlights I can pick would be the first trophy win in 2000 ( Challenge cup in Murrayfield the first time the bulls had won the cup for over 50 years ) and the first GF win in 2001 after the bitter defeat in 1999. One other would be the W.C.C in 2006 .

Q. You played in what was probably the most feared pack in the whole of the Super League era, what made that so special to be tagged as the "Awesome Foursome".

   A.   I‘ve never been one that bought into tags or titles. It was something that we got tagged with and it just seemed to stick . We laughed about it more than taking it seriously. Generally one of the ‘big men’ would be with one of the smaller men (me and Brian McDermott). So that meant me being on at the same time as Joe or Baloo or vice versa. Then being changed at some point .You had to feel for the opposition at points. To have a ginormous man of the stature of Baloo and Joe running at you , then to be replaced by another when he tired must of been dis heartening to say the least.

Q. During your playing days you had a ferocious rivalry with Barrie McDermott and you were never one to back down, was it just pride and bragging rights or something a little bit more also how did you get along away from the playing field and are you still in touch.
 

 A. We got along fine away from the field. He was and still is a great bloke. On it he was the old bull and I the young(couldn't help the pun). He just generally took my head off on most encounters. thinking that would discourage me . It carried on from there with neither of us willing to back  down .

Q. You have had the honour of playing alongside current Bulls coach Jimmy Lowes, another ferocious competitor no less, can you give our readers an insight into how Jimmy operates and what do you think he will bring to Bradford as a coach. 

 A.  He was assistant coach at Bradford in 2004 .He helped me then .From being 17 i’d always looked up to jimmy .And we had a great  bond that most front rowers should get with their hookers.He knew when to  give me the ball , but also when not too. As a player he demanded the best .He did that of himself but also of others. He was one of the leaders. He’s how a coach should be .Upfront and honest , but leaving no room for guessing .You know where you stand and what is expected of you . His record since he took over in the super league speaks volumes.  He is a fine choice for Bradford . The championship is a very hard place to get out of .

Q. You were forced to end your career due to the reoccurring knee injury, what plans did you have in place when you were due to retire, was it always a plan to enter coaching, we recently spoke to Jamie Peacock and he said it would be far too stressful do you agree.

A.  I retired certainly earlier than I had expected . Not by one of the injuries that should of retired me but by a knee infection post a routine tidy up op. I never envisaged coaching . I would say that going straight into coaching was something that was more forced than a choice. I was contracted to the club , so they gave me a chance but by the same token were far more inclined too as I was contracted until a year post the injury. I left Huddersfield in June 2014 by mutual consent . I certainly found the transition to coaching  extremely hard .That and the massive shift in work load coupled with( due to the schedule then, eg the times when the youth train ) having almost zero plan ability of your life nor I would say a good life work balance. I felt thrown in at the deep end without doubt .

Q. In 2006 it was well documented that you moved onto Wigan with former Bulls boss Brian Noble, can you tell us a little bit about your decision at that time and how did it feel leaving a side where you had enjoyed so much success and domination of Super League. 

 A. From the back end of 2004 I had felt that I needed a change. I had been there since 1996 and been fortunate to be in a dominant team that had won everything. I had asked Nobby to leave in 2005 due to these reasons . He told me that would only be possible if I was replaced by a player of exactly the same standard . Which with most players being in contract at that time just not possible. in 2006 Nobby left and then gave me the only way to leave - being bought .Bradford had turned down a bid from Warrington before the Wigan one was accepted from  in summer 2006 . There had been interest from Australia also but at that time the amount demanded by Bradford was more than could be justified and back then the salary cap and exchange rate meant they had even less. 

  It was certainly sad to leave. There were still some of the people I had spent all my time with there. The main exodus had started after the GF in 2005 when  the core of the squad left. So the mainly knew team made leaving not as hard.

Q. You have played in some of the biggest games in super league, what was your all time favourite memory, and most of all can you explain how it felt when you walked out onto the Odsal turf in front of over 24,000 fans. 

  A.  My all time favourite memory would be the 2006 World club challenge . Everything just went right  for me that day. And beating the Aussies is always good. Especially after , as per usual being wrote off.

  Odsal was always a special place for me. I watched my brother Adam playing there 1992-1994 and I  started playing there at 16 .And played there until my final game there as a player in 2011 with Wigan . The place held so many great memories and held a enormous amount of nostalgia . It was my sons first game attendance where I played  and also my mums favourite stadium. For those reasons it will always be my favourite ground. The crowd always gave massive support. The place on game day was like a carnival. A very special atmosphere that you will struggle to find these days due to the design of most of the stadiums.

Q. You were once described as the best prop in the world, what advice would you give to any rising star of today who wants to become a star in Rugby league. 

 A. Catch the ball….Just kidding. I would say enjoy it .If you want it more than the rest you will certainly give your self a far better chance. Be serious when you need to be but also don't forget the lucky position your in, so enjoy and savour it. And plan for your retirement . Do as much outside rugby  development as you can . whether that be qualifications, a trade ect . What ever it is you choose. Use the extra time you have .

Q. We have mentioned the fact of the Awesome Foursome, but in the teams you played in was littered with talent, likes of Shontayne Hape, Lesley Vanikolo, Karl Pratt, to name a few how did it feel to be involved in a team with quality literally all over the park. 

 A. It made your job a lot easier. You cant play of the back of a team that's being dominated. At points our wingers were as big as the props. And we had some class halves to direct us around too. I certainly would love to see how that Bradford team would do in todays super league.

Q. In the 2006 world club challenge Bradford were missing the first choice pairing of Paul Deacon and Robbie Paul, were there ever any doubts that Bulls were vulnerable without that partnership. 

 A. With every World club challenge we were wrote off .Particularly on this occasion with the loss of Deacs and the exodus of players the year before. The team didn't doubt .Only the external people.

Q. You had a stab at coaching with your old pal Paul Anderson, can you tell us about Paul's approach to coaching and does he still have his no nonsense approach he had as a player.
 

 A. Yes Baloo still has the no nonsense approach. A very honest and upfront one.

Q. As we are all aware Bradford have been put through the mill over the past few seasons with uncertainty on future and more besides, do you think that Bulls can bounce back and become a dominant force again or is there more of a level playing field than the early days of Super League and will there be a team that will dominate again. 

A. I hope the bulls bounce back and get back into super league. The Championship can prove a curse some times with teams exhausting their resources to go all out for re entrance into super league. Meaning that if they fail it leaves them in a bad position.

I think the results in super league will see more upset results as the quality of teams tighten .Mainly due to the overall team player quality dropping .Due to the fact that now that the best Aussies and kiwi's will generally stay in Aus. And the best talent from here will leave for Aus or rugby union .

Q. An ongoing debate we are having with all our featured interviewees is the fact of England or Great Britain, the gap appears to be still there between the Hemispheres. Having played for GB and England,  do you think a GB team would create a bigger pool of players to choose from and give more choices of talent available. 

 A. There is a special feeling about playing for Great Britain .Representing your country is the highest honour .A great Britain team gives you without doubt more depth of selection. The question is how much would that differ from the England team picked that year??? I would suggest by very little .

Q. The seasons are long and gruelling as it is, but do you think a mid season international to help gel an International side in preparations for a series ,could be a feature? or even having another Origin Series, such as Yorkshire/ Lancashire 

A. Only if the amount of games is cut do I ever think a mid season series is viable. Or fair on the fans or players. With some players missing it to take the chance for rest also knowing they have the rest of the season to win a place in the end of season internationals. Or taking the chance to have needed medical work.

Q. You also had a stab at Boxing to raise money for the Steve Prescott foundation, what were the preparations like for that and was it similar to Rugby league training? 

A.  It was similar in the fact the serious way we approached it . I was lucky to be trained by one of my best pals Jimmy Moore who was a ex pro boxer and pro boxing coach. We also sparred with the professional Mark Hobson (former British and commonwealth cruiserweight champion ) and  Paul Bonsan who were both very generous to give up  their time for me.

Q. What advice would you give to Bulls fans ahead of our campaign in the Championship. 

    A.   Make Odsal the feared place it once was.

Q. Finally Stuart, how do you predict that the season will pan out at your former club Huddersfield, is a Grand final appearance on the cards? 

A.   I certainly think Huddersfield will be top 6, but with the current squad I cant seem them bringing home any silverware.  I hope I’m proved wrong.  

               
Once again our thanks to Stuart for taking the time to speak to us at BULLieve. All the best in your future ventures.
 
                                                    SUMMER BASH!!!!!!!!!!

Well Bulls supporters what can we say about your entry into the Summer Bash, each and every one of you deserves a massive pat on the back, go on and take another look Here . 
Bulls supporters really got into the spirit of the day and so did the boys on the field walking away with a 18-4 victory Adrian Purtell with 2 tries, and Ryan Shaw with a try, it was a tough hard battle for the Odsal boys, typical of a Bradford/Halifax game really and at times scrappy with too many unforced errors, the defensive effort cant be faulted though and neither can the supporters who really showed the championship our qualities well done to you all.  Dennis Foley sent a few pictures in from the bash and it looked as though you all had a great time.                                   

                                              

                                                         

                            

                                                        Just a few Bulls at the Bash

                                                      DANNY JONES R.I.P 

      

Of course we are all very saddened by the tragic news of  Danny Jones, Danny left behind a wife and 5 month old twins, all the best efforts were made to attempt to save him but sadly passed away in hospital, once again the Rugby League community has pulled together and have raised a tremendous amount of money for his family so far at publishing, on the just giving page over £173,000,00 has been raised of the 175.000.00 target

                

                              

  Keighley Cougars have honoured Danny by retiring his No.6 Jersey and naming one of the stands in his honour, they have also publicly said they will honour the remainder of his contract with the money going into a trust for his twin daughters. Should you wish you to donate to Danny's Just Giving page you can do so by Clicking Here. A tragic loss R.I.P Danny.  


                                      FANS INTERCTIONS AND MENTIONS.

At BULLieve we are always asking for fans interactions as without your help and input our blog wouldn't be what it is, Pete Smith has been in touch and sent us some pictures from a recent game between Boothtown Masters and Boothtown terriers, raising money for the Danny Jones fund. The game itself was played under masters rules. The pennine league open age team were left a little bemused and frustrated by the rugby league masters rules, which meant many fines were incurred with each indiscretion. Michael Blagborough from the 1904 @dean clough provided pie and peas and £110 was raised which makes a total of £400 so far. Well done lads

                      Here are a few pictures that were kindly submitted by Pete Smith,

                        

                            

                            

                            

                            

We thank you all for taking your time to read our blog, we hope you enjoy it as much as we do writing it, if you want to get in touch with us for anything you may want to be featured you can contact us on Facebook at Bradford Bulls BULLieve, Twitter @BullsBullieve or drop us an e mail

at bullieve@hotmail.co.uk, We hope your all in fine voice ready for Sunday against Doncaster. Keep BULLieveing!!!!!

The Season is nearly here, with Brian Smith.

      

                                         WELCOME TO BRADFORD BULLS BULLieve 

                                                 IN THIS WEEKS EDITION WE HAVE,

                                             RECENT NEWS AND EVENTS FROM ODSAL, 

                                                         VIEW FROM THE TERRACE, 

          INTERVIEW WITH FORMER BRADFORD BULLS HEAD COACH BRIAN SMITH, 

                                                   LOOKING AT LEIGH CENTURIONS 

                                                FANS INTERACTION AND MENTIONS,

                                           RECENT NEWS AND EVENTS FROM ODSAL.


 The full contingent of Jimmy's squad have just recently taken part in a 3 day Army style training camp in Essex of which was a huge success and provided a valuable break from the routine training regime. 

  

The Bulls joined the 33 Engineer Regiment (EOD) and sister regiment, 101 (City of London) Engineer Regiment (EOD). Following a host of problem-solving tasks, the players faced rigorous army physical training as they got the chance to sample what life in the armed forces would be like. Jimmy felt the break will pay dividends when the season kicks off on the 15/02/14. 

     

 The Bulls players on camp, All Bradford Bulls pictures are used with courtesy and permissions of                                                Bradford Bulls Media Executive Ryan Sparks. 

     

Yesterday evening it was the night of the Big Season Launch which saw a whole host of new exciting and innovative ideas, the news from Marc Green was very positive. Marc addressed the audience announcing that under his leadership a "world class back room team has been assembled to ensure first class rugby for the Bulls supporters". He went onto add, "The clubs staff has doubled since i took over and there are fantastic people in place and every department is growing, when I took over there were less than 90 business's working with the Bulls. That figure has since grown by 300%. Since the relaunch of the Big One lottery, we are homing in on the 5,000-member mark, which will generate a further £5,000 a week for the club". 

       

Marc moved onto the season tickets and how they were performing "we set a target of 4,000 members of the 1863 club. That is not a break even point and, with 2 weeks to go we have surpassed 3,000, over 12% of the 3,004 members have not held a season ticket for more than 2 years. 

Marc also announced the new arrival of THE BULLETIN free of charge for all supporters and thus replaces match day programmes, (Keep your eyes open for this).  Full details will be published on the Bulls website tomorrow.  The website is to also undergo a makeover and this will be avaliable early next week as final preparations take place, designed by live and breathe and produced by Tecmark whom are sponsors for 2015, and will provide a new fresh look for supporters but will be more functional and for fans to enjoy a better online experience. Fans will also be able to enjoy a much more enjoyable experience while browsing online content and merchandise. Also another superb announcement is Bulls TV is to be launched alongside the new website. 

       

                              And most of all the best part of BULLS TV is that it's all free. 

Much anticipated also from the Evening was the announcement of the squad numbers, here are the 2015 Bradford Bulls.  

1. Jake Mullaney, 2. Etu Uaisele, 3. Adrian Purtell, 4. Matty Blythe, 5. Danny Williams, 6. Lee Gaskell, 

7. Harry Siejka, 8. Paul Clough, 9. Adam O'Brien, 10. Adam Sidlow, 11. Tom Olbison, 

12. Dale Ferguson, 13. Danny Addy, 14. Jay Pitts, 15. Dan Fleming, 16. Karl Davies, 17. Jean-Phillipe Baile, 18. (Awaiting confirmation) 19. Chris Ulugia, 20. Adam Henry, 21. Dave Petersen, 22. Chev Walker (C) 23. Alex Mellor, 24. Lucas Walshaw, 25, Nathan Conroy, 26. Vila Halafihi, 27. Ryan Shaw, 

28. Samir Tahraoui, 29. Adam Brook, 30. Sam Bates, 31. Epalahame Lauaki. 

Don't forget there are still huge discounts on items within the Bulls Mega store, on some items there are 50% discounts across the official ISC merchandise range, be quick though as stock is limited but there is a variety of polo shirts, hoodies and T shirts on sale. If you are unable to visit you can view the range by Clicking Here .

             

                                             VIEW FROM THE TERRACE 

We have been asking fans in our Facebook group to share there views and thoughts on the new season ahead, this week Michael Thornes got in touch with BULLieve with his thoughts and has also kindly allowed us to use some pictures from the game. 

"Thought we played well today a few handling errors which Jimmy can iron out. Better 2nd half by players outstanding feature for me was lumberjack (Karl Davis) pulling beep beep burrow back by scruff of his shirt. Nice to see bulls fans showing JP there appreciation. Bring on Fui Fui & lets see lumberjack put him on his back". 

     

 

                                                           

                                                       LOOKING AT LEIGH CENTURIONS,

                               

                                   

                                       A Programme from the Northern days against Leigh

Leigh were the form side of 2014 in the Championship, only losing one game in the course of the regular season to Doncaster. The only other game they lost was a close contested affair between our very own arch rivals Leeds Rhino's. 2014 was the clubs best season on record to date. Leigh went onto win the league leaders shield and win the Grand Final for the first time in 10 years, with a 36-12 victory over Featherstone Rovers.

Leigh will be formidable opponents for the Bulls in 2014, who also have very big super league ambitions and have recruited wisely during the off season. Most notably is Fuifui moimoi who has signed initially on a 1 year deal, with the option to extend for a further year. Moimoi comes to Leigh with a glittering career behind him in the NRL having played for Parramatta Eels from 2004-14, also having represented Tonga and New Zealand respectively.

Leigh though also have a whole host of talent in there ranks with the names of Martin Aspinwall, Sean Penkywicz, Michael Platt and Oliver Wilkes to name just a few who will be hoping to earn the side a place in the Super league for 2016.

The last time Bradford and Leigh met was in the Challenge cup in 2010, when a certain Robbie Paul was on the opposing side, Bradford had previously trounced Dewsbury 50-0 in the 4th round showing that there was a huge gulf between Super League and Lower league opposition. In Bradford's last game they had been humiliated at the hands of Crusaders RL at the Magic weekend 0-19, Leigh came into the game brimming with confidence that potentially another upset could be on the cards. 

Leigh were no strangers to cup upsets as they had previously upset the odds in 1971 with what many say as one of the most unexpected results when Alex Murphy inspired them to beat favourites Leeds 24-7. 

In there last league game Leigh had also beaten Dewsbury 30-14 which was there 10th in succession and briefly topped the Championship, it certainly had all the attributes to be a great game with Bradford sitting pretty in 5th place In the super league table. 

On paper that's about as good as it got as Bradford really showed there class and brought Leigh down to earth with a huge bang beating them 58-16 with Chris Nero scoring a hat trick. Paul Sykes had a faultless evening with the boot scoring 20 points. Bradford's other try scorers that night were, Steve Menzies, Wayne Godwin, Brett Kearney, Michael Worrincy and Glenn Hall. 

Leigh put in a Valiant effort that evening and since then have improved season upon season, whether the result will be similar on the 15th February we shall have to wait and see, somehow we feel it may be much more closely fought affair. 

 In the friendlies this season Leigh have come out on top most surprisingly by beating Wigan 18-14, some may say that Wigan had only put a host of first teamers out, but with the names of Josh Charnley and Joel Tomkins in the squad certainly had strength in depth. Leigh were superb in defence for long periods especially by holding out for nearly 5 straight sets in there own half.

Leigh also were victorious against North Wales Crusaders 42-22 in what was a very physical encounter which also featured former Bradford Bull Stuart Reardon, so far Leigh have looked strong in attack and in defence. With the most recent hammering of Keighley Cougars 86-0. Leigh have had a perfect start to there pre season and will now be looking forward to getting back to league action and stating there intentions for a position in Super League.  

          To take a look back at Bradford Northern V Leigh you can do so by Clicking Here .

    Leigh Centurions lift the trophy in the 2014 Grand Final at Headingly against Featherstone Rovers.

         INTERVIEW WITH FORMER BULLS HEAD COACH BRIAN SMITH, 

This weeks former Bull is none other than the man himself who was with Bradford from the beginning of BULLMANIA, Brian Smith took the Bulls to Wembley for the first time in 23 years,and helped create a whole new era in the modern game. This week Brian speaks to BULLieve.

 Q. What are your stand out memories from coaching the Bulls, and what was your reason to come over and take charge at Odsal.

Stand out memories of Bulls were almost all about what exciting times they were. Every day we made progress. The way so many people came together in a very short time to create Bullmania was really wonderful to be a part of. 

Opportunity was my reason for joining the Bulls. I knew Peter Deakin could create a completely different off field business model to make possible the generation of serious £££££s. We had loved our time at Hull 1987-91 so I felt I knew the English game pretty well too. 

Q. You didn't initially arrive immediately at Bradford to take the reigns, but you were supported immensely by assistant Matthew Elliot, did you find it difficult implement changes without actually seeing the playing squad.

I completed the playoff series with St George Dragons then left immediately for Bradford. My wife and kids had aleady been there to start the school year. Yes Matthew began the process of change - we had spoken most days and nights on the progress and problems until I could get there. 

Matt did a great job which was an early sign of the great achievements he would become a part of in the future.

Q. When you eventually arrived at Odsal the centenary year was up and running and everything was not as seemed, what were your immediate changes that needed to get people interested in the Bulls brand.

The changes needed were extensive. Bradford had rich history as a sporting club but had not embraced modern professional attitudes and business practices. Resources and facilities were in need of complete overhaul as was the aging playing roster. 

The Bulls brand and image equally needed to be emphasized. One of the major drivers in the Bulls becoming one of the most recognized sporting clubs was Peter Deakin. He was a real innovator in UK sport based on his experiences in USA sports clubs and on his absolute passion for rugby league. His achievements cannot be over stated. Peter's sudden and early passing was a terrible loss for his family and rugby league. 

Q. As a player you only played for South Sydney and St George respectively,what was your decision to enter coaching so early in your career.

ONLY 31? I was very pleased and proud of my achievement in playing any games first team games for St George and South Sydney ! Becoming a physical education teacher introduced me to coaching. I felt It was my calling and loved everything about coaching both junior levels and eventually professionally. 

Q. You have coached in the NRL and super league can you tell us about some of your highs and lows during your coaching career.

Every day had highs in coaching for me for the 34 years I held those responsibilities. There were lows on a few too but I choose not to concentrate on those.   

Q. How much do you feel the game in general has changed from your own playing days, and do you think that the English Super League has the same intensity of the NRL.

The standards of preparation have changed remarkably, totally even in the past 10 years in Australia. It's consistently evolving as a professional sport and entertainment business. The on field aspect of the game is almost u recognizable from the 70s challenging and demanding our clubs teams and individual players to meet athletic and footballing standards of the highest level. And the world around the game also demands similar standards in lifestyle choices of behavior and attitudes. 

Rugby League has a different flavor to it in SL. Rather than compare or grade it I prefer to enjoy the differences to NRL. 

Q. You had a short spell with Bradford again in 2006 in a advisory role what did this in involve.

Steve Mac had just taken over mid season and I had just finished nearly a decade with Parramatta Eels. I came to offer him some experience and assistance in a critical period after a poor start to the season when he took over in his first shot at coaching. Recovering and rebuilding the Bulls was a tremendously difficult thing which he did very well. 

As time would show the depth of off field issues underpinned the on field difficulties in maintaining the amazing standards the club had enjoyed over the previous decade. It appeared to me that all that club based team work and quality leadership of the initial seasons of the Bulls had serious cracks in it. 

Q. You have also coached the USA international side is rugby league well supported in the states or is it still work in progress with NFL being the predominant sport in America.

No I was asked to step into the usa job when the NZ Warriors refused Matt E to continue in the role of Tomahawks head coach. I did some planning for the WC but had to withdraw after a few weeks as my son Keegan decided to get married during the World Cup. The USA rugby league has never been fully supported by the international body. It is undergoing yet another coup and restructure. I expect it will remain in that state until the support required is forthcoming. 

Q. As a coach have you ever come across any players that have been difficult to coach?

Yes but not many compared to the many I have had the pleasure to coach who were dedicated and disciplined and eager to improve.  

Q. Was it only ever your intention just to spend the 1 season at Bradford and then hand the reigns over to Matthew?

No. A surprise offer came to return to coach in Australia. As much as it was the most exciting period of my life I had recognized some difficulties in my total commitment to living in UK for an extended period for me.

Q. How did you react when it became public that Bradford were to enter administration and potentially faced extinction.

Whilst I have not remained totally conversant with inner working of the Bulls since I left, I was not surprised when the shocking demise of the great club hit as I was very aware of the ongoing risk and ultimate effects of the "Iestyn Harris contract issue". 

Q. Yourself and Matthew pretty much master minded the early years of success for the Bulls, how do you think they will fare this season in the Championship where the competition is going to be ferocious.

Matthew and many others made ongoing contributions to Bradford's SL domination. My contribution was very satisfying even though it was a bit of a whirlwind 2 seasons. 

Jimmy Lowes acquisition was one of the best of the many player personnel decisions we made in those early rebuilding days. Now he is in the coaching hot seat himself so I know he will get lots of Bulls-style support. I really don't know of Jimmy's experience or influence as a coach but I certainly wish him and the club well. 

Q. Robbie Paul is now a major influence at Bradford but you knew him as a fresh faced young lad, did you see the potential in Robbie early in his Career, also with regards to our Current Bulls coach Jimmy Lowes whom also signed in 1996, can you tell us a little bit about Jimmy and his work ethic, he was a ferocious competitor on the field and never took a backward step what was he like to coach?

Yes we made him our first SL captain! I am surprised he is not the manager of the Rolling Stones or chairman of BBC by now! 

JL was definitely near the top of any player acquisition of that period of SL's beginning. When you see how little we paid for him and his undoubted contribution for so long to the Bulls it was great business! And it hurt Leeds every time he played the many great games he had for the Bulls. Great footballing instincts and tremendous competitor. 

Q. You took Bradford to Wembley in 1996 for the first time in 23 years what do you remember of that particular day, some described that particular game as the best Challenge cup ever. (Not for a bulls Fan)

It was a fantastic day despite the loss. The game itself was exhilarating and it was an early sign to Bulls fans and generally to all rugby league fans of the new beginning for rugby league resurgence and the Bulls huge part in that. 

Q. What did Bradford have in the Early Super League years that others didn't to become such a huge success and force.

A strong commitment from everyone at the Bulls to make SL work was generated almost immediately. While some other clubs and individuals were whining about summer rugby and full time professionalism, the Bulls were revitalising the whole business operation. It was such a wonderful experience to be part of a group of people wiling to embrace such rapid change. 

Q. Bradford may have fallen from grace for now, but do you think that those early years you helped create will return once again at Odsal as fans we certainly believe so, do you think that an instant return to Super league is a must for the Bulls.

That original group of people had the attitude necessary for great achievements in such a short time. Anything is possible with hard work, smart ideas, great teamwork and quality leadership. Bulls have done it once why not do it again, now.

 Q. If you had to pick your own squad from your own playing days and coaching career to present day who would you have in it. 

That's too tough sorry.

Q. Recently Sam Burgess made the switch to union from South Sydney, do you think it's time that salary caps were raised and more monies paid out to Rugby league players to stop the defection to Union.

No.

 Until SL (and NRL) clubs recognize what they could achieve if they saw the possibilities for growth of the game rather than short term growth of their own clubs,  salary caps will remain where they are now. They probably need to remain there rather than go broke trying to buy their way to sort term success. 

Q. Media coverage in England is very poor to raise the profile of the Great game, what do you feel needs to be done so it gets the media exposure on national TV it really deserves.

 Too many negative people involved in critical positions has been a detrimental growth feature of RL in all its posts around the globe at times. The quality of the game is not the major problem in my opinion although it could be consistently better with better junior player development programmes. It's the negativity and lack of awareness that clubs are big rivals on the field but are all part of the same business all of the time! Off field team work carrying consistent positive messages via the media could achieve a very different media exposure. 

Q. Finally Brian do you think that the International scene also needs to be revamped and would England benefit by reverting back to Great Britain.

Yes to the first question. I expect some very positive changes to the international aspect with Shane Richardson's recent appointment to NRL admin with that a significant feature of his responsibilities I believe. 

I am not aware of the possible GB effect. 

We would very much like to thank Brian for his time to speak to BULLieve and express our sincere gratitude for taking his time to answer our questions, Thank you very much indeed Brian we wish you well. 

                                         FANS INTERACTIONS AND MENTIONS, 

We would like to kindly thank Ryan Sparks of the Bradford Bulls, who kindly lets us use images from the official site we thank you for this and your ongoing support Thank you. 

In our Facebook group we asked how you came about supporting Bradford, whether it be Northern or the Bulls, Kirsty Dew told us her story of how she became a "Bull". 

" It was actually valentines weekend and I had been staying over at my partners, my partner had bought me a Valentine's card but the red roses were missing (13 years on still nothing changes), however on the Saturday morning my partner did do something romantic we got engaged on Valentine's Day, he did do the whole thing by asking permission from my parents and got down on one knee, which was quite sweet, and then proceeded to tell me in his words "right get changed Bulls kick off at 6 were off to watch world club challenge" a little shocked but went along with it as I had actually never ever been to a live sporting event, secretly a little excited but also a candle lit dinner would have also been nice. We set off on our 2 hour journey and arrived about 10 minutes late, it was freezing walking into the stadium and I thought I'm really not going to enjoy this, my partner was in his element giving it loads shouting, cheering well he was away and I realised just how much the Bulls meant to him. Bradford scored and that was it I was hooked we were so close to the players you could almost touch them and they were just so big the atmosphere was electric, I forgot about the cold and just enjoyed the whole atmosphere of everything about the game, I must have been a bit of a pain asking about the rules every few minutes but I don't think he minded. After that game I was hooked on the Bulls, we started going to Home games and a few away when we could and work allowed and I've never looked back ever since, he's still Bulls mad and I know it's something I have to live with but I do enjoy watching Bradford and really hope they bounce back into Super League it's just not the same without them being there COYB'S".  Thank you Kirsty that was great to hear your story. 

 We are also currently in talks with furthering our range our merchandise of which we are hoping to include BULLieve T Shirts, mugs and other novelties, in doing so we are hoping to be able to make enough profit on the items so that we are able to donate an amount to the Bulls Foundation. This is still work in progress but as soon as we know any more details we shall let you know via our Facebook group or Twitter account @BullsBULLieve. 

We would like to thank you all once again for reading our blog, and look forward now to the beginning of our new adventure in the championship, until next time don't stop BULLieving.