Hull FC’s Tristan Norfolk proud to make ‘long time coming’ England debut

Hull FC (https://www.hullfc.com) Wheelchair star Tristan Norfolk made his international debut in England’s 58-28 victory over Spain last Thursday.

Norfolk made his England Wheelchair Rugby League debut over a year and a half after being named in his first England Performance Squad, back in April 2023.

On making his long-awaited England debut, Tristan Norfolk said:

“It feels amazing! It’s felt like a long time coming and I’m super proud of it.”

Norfolk was one of three debutants against Spain, as England Wheelchair head coach Tom Coyd MBE looked to utilise the full England squad across the double header weekend.

All three debutants played an important role in the match as they linked up with members from the 2021 World Cup winning team to claim victory over Spain.

On playing in a team with both debutants and experienced players, Norfolk said: “They shared their vast knowledge of the emotions and feelings going into the game, and likewise with Jason Owen and Chris Haynes we got to share this journey together.”

“To play alongside two great guys who got to experience playing for their country for the first time and with people like Wayne Boardman and Joe Coyd who have so much experience representing their country, was such a joy and it made it such an easy experience leading up to the game.”

Thursday’s match against Spain was the first time the nations have faced each other since the group stages of the 2021 World Cup which ended in a 104-12 England victory.

The squad then faced France on Saturday as they fell to a tight 32-28 loss to complete their international double header against European opposition.

On the double header, Norfolk said: “To make my debut against Spain and to enjoy this France tour with the whole squad has been such a privilege.”

“Everyone has worked incredibly hard throughout the whole season and for all that hard work to finally pay off is such an achievement.”

Wheelchair Rugby League is growing domestically, which players like Norfolk are a testament to, as new players continue to grow and develop within the sport.

Additionally, the international game is growing around the world as Ireland faced France on Thursday whilst Australia also take on New Zealand.

On the development of Wheelchair Rugby League, Norfolk said: “We have seen participation in the sport increase tenfold, as we now have over 40 clubs competing and 1000 players participating.”

“Internationally the sport is growing too, as there are 7 international matches planned for next year and an international competition to take place in Spain in September, and an Ashes tour in November.”

After the double header, Norfolk will now be looking ahead to the 2025 Wheelchair Super League season, and also any internationals that England have scheduled for next year.