«Spirit of '55» by Rob Watson

In 2009, Warrington RLFC reached the nadir of their long-term, chronic underachievement, prompting one fan to write to the local newspaper questioning the players' commitment. He signed the letter 'Spirit of '55' — a reference to the year the club were last champions. Results began to improve dramatically, with back-to-back Challenge Cup wins followed by a League Leader's Shield — but still no championship. Spirit of '55 follows Warrington's quest to become champions in 2012, as seen through the eyes of their most passionate fan. But are the team cursed by the town's expectations, and the ghost of '55? Laced with terrace humour and tempered by the expert eye of a professional coach, the team's record of failure and the 'curse of hope' will strike a chord with all sports fans. The book builds to the climax of the play-offs where one team will achieve glory. But will it be Warrington?Key features— The first rugby league book to focus on a fan’s-eye view of a season— Excellent sales potential to rugby league fans both domestic and international— A universal, heartstring-tugging tale of one team’s 50-year record of failure, and the ‘curse of hope’ which will strike a chord with all sports fans— Written by novelist, professional rugby league coach and Warrington Guardian contributor Rob Watson— Strong support from local Cheshire/Lancashire and Northern media