Bull Masters - Mike Forshaw
The signing of Mike Forshaw from Rugby Union outfit Saracens in 1997 was hardly received by the Odsal faithful with the same enthusiasm as Steve McNarmara's from Hull or Stuart Spruce's capture from Widnes the preceding year. Who was this Mike Forshaw ex Wigan, ex Wakefield, ex Leeds, a journey man if any thing? It didn't take long for Mike to totally invalidate the journey man tag and prove to be one of Matthew Elliott's shrewdest signings. A back row forward of the highest caliber, he had all the attributes necessary for the modern game in abundance; accurate passing, strong ball carrying, a high level of support play, vision and a phenomenal work rate, coupled with a champions mental toughness, Mike was a natural for the developing Bulls team.
In his first season Mike was an integral part of Bradford's stroll to the 1997 Super League title. Joining the Bulls was the take-off Mike needed to progress his career. While playing for his home town club Wigan he represented Great Britain under 21's twice from the bench against France. These were to be his only international honors until his link up with the Bulls, where in 1997 he received his first cap for Great Britain against the Aussies along with Bradford team mates Brian McDermott, Steve McNamara and James Lowes. Mike would have enjoyed more international caps had it not been for St Helens stalwart Paul Sculthorpe and Wigan and GB Captain Andy Farrell being around at the same time.
Known as the "ultimate professional" by both the coaching and playing staff, Mike set a great example to others. His attitude in training was exemplary, which inspired others to follow his high standard. When dedicated professionals like Brian McDermott list the "Mike Forshaw Factor" as the biggest influence on his career, quoting examples of watching Mike train. The simple advice given by him; "work hard" is an example to any young player wanting to make a career in professional sport and testimony to the man himself.
While at the Bulls, Mike not only furthered his international career and started collecting major honors, he studied for a Sports Diploma in Health and Leisure to enhance his career prospects when his playing days would be finally over.
Mike collected Super League titles in 1997, 2001, 2003, Challenge Cup winners' medals in 2000, 2003 and a World Club Championship in 2002. During the Bulls most successful year, the "Dream Season" of 2003 when the Odsal men captured all major trophies, Mike's enthusiasm was a key factor behind that success. Playing thirty two of the club's thirty-five matches including major roles in both the Challenge Cup Final and Grand Final, Mike's contribution was immense.
Sadly Mike retired from playing in 2004 moving to one of his former clubs Warrington and utilizing his Sports diploma as the Strength and Conditioning coach. For a brief period he held position of Player Performance Lifestyle Advisor for the Rugby League. In 2006 the lure of working at his home town club Wigan and linking up with his former Bradford mentor Brian Noble was too strong. Mike quit the Wolves to join the Cherry and Whites, taking a similar role to the one he held at Warrington.
Martin Bass.