crackers, gromit!

Widnes Wild are delighted to announce the re-signing of forward Tristan Grimshaw for the 2026/27 season.

Heading into his fourth season in Widnes, Tristan returns determined to make his mark once again after showing flashes of his quality throughout the 2025/26 campaign.

Grimshaw is no stranger to the Wild faithful, having become a familiar face in Widnes colours over the past three seasons. While injuries have unfortunately disrupted much of his time with the club, his commitment and determination have never been in doubt and he now heads into the new campaign with a full off-season behind him and eager to make a significant impact.

After enjoying a breakout season during his time in Nottingham before returning to Widnes, Grimshaw’s momentum was halted by a season-ending injury early in his first year back with the Wild. Despite further setbacks in recent seasons, he continued to battle back, producing important performances and valuable contributions whenever he was able to take to the ice.

Head Coach Tom Jackson believes a fully fit Grimshaw can play an important role in the Wild’s ambitions this season.

“Tristan has had a tough couple of years on the ice since returning to Widnes. He had that breakout season in Nottingham before coming back, but then picked up a season-ending injury early into his first year with us, a setback that stalled the momentum he’d built.

Last season, when he was fit, he played at the level I know he can. He chipped in with important points throughout the year and showed exactly why we wanted him back in the first place. Unfortunately, he picked up another knock towards the end of the season which limited his minutes and kept him out of the playoffs, which was tough for him and for the group.

This year is different. He’s had the full off-season to get himself physically right and prepare properly. He knows the standard he can reach, and now he’s had the time to make sure he’s ready to perform at that level again. I’m confident he’ll come into this season refreshed, fit, and ready to make a real impact.”

With a full summer of preparation behind him, Grimshaw will be aiming to put injury frustrations behind him and establish himself as a key contributor throughout the 2026/27 campaign. His determination to return stronger, combined with the quality he has shown whenever fully fit, makes him another exciting piece of the Wild roster heading into the new season.

Supporters and businesses now have the opportunity to back Gromit for the 2026/27 campaign.

Player sponsorship packages for Tristan are now available, offering businesses and supporters the opportunity to partner with one of the Wild’s longest-serving players. Sponsors will receive exposure across the club’s social media channels, website and matchnight communications throughout the season while supporting the continued growth of hockey in Widnes.

Fans can also secure a piece of the action through the club’s popular Own & Loan scheme. Both Grimshaw’s home and away jerseys are available for £75 each, giving supporters the opportunity to follow his fourth season in Widnes before taking ownership of a game-worn jersey at the end of the campaign.

To enquire about player sponsorship or reserve an Own & Loan jersey, please contact info@widneswild.co.uk.

Everyone at Widnes Wild is delighted to welcome Gromit back for another season, and we look forward to seeing #14 back on the ice in yellow throughout the 2026/27 campaign.

Keep an eye on the club’s social media channels, with more player announcements coming soon.

#LETSGOWILD #REWILDING