Just over a week from his testimonial game Dan Toal has emphasised just what a special feeling it will be.
Toal was granted a testimonial by the RFL at the beginning of 2023 recognising his services to the sport of rugby league.
He says it will be a special feeling to see so many supporters turning out to support his special game on December 30 (ko 2pm) at Craven Park.
He has spent well over a decade with Barrow Raiders, making more than 200 appearances in that time. Toal is currently off-contract but is continuing to try and prove his fitness at the club ahead of the 2024 Betfred Championship season.
His testimonial match will see the Raiders end the year with a special match against a Barrow and District Select side.
Toal is unlikely to feature as he continues to work his way back to full fitness, having been sidelined by a knee injury for the entirety of the 2023 season. Nevertheless, he says the day will be a special one for him and his family.
He said: “I’m obviously delighted. I’ve given the club a lot of time and effort across the last 13 years, so it’s nice to be getting recognition in the form of the testimonial match.
“I’m really disappointed I won’t be able to play properly yet due to my injury, but I can’t risk coming back too early when I’m not ready. My main focus is to get fit for the season, starting in March.”
In a bid to support his return from injury, Toal has taken part in light training over recent weeks – a process which he says has required a lot of patience.
The 34-year-old added: “It’s great to be back on the field with the lads. I’m not in full training yet and it’s been a bit up and down with me at the moment. I just need to stay patient and stick to the process, then hopefully I’ll be back in full training with the boys as soon as I can.
“I don’t think I could describe how good it’d feel to get to the point where I’m back on the field with the lads, warming up ready to play.
“It’s been 14 months since my operation and I’m still not ready, so it shows how long of a process it’s been for me. It has been really tough, but to get back playing this season, have a good year and eventually retire on my own terms would be perfect.”
