LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Wigan Warriors' upcoming clash against the Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge is a momentous occasion that resonates deeply with the town.
The four gold stars adorning the entrance to their state-of-the-art training facilities serve as a constant reminder of the rich rugby league history associated with Wigan.
Nestled in the Lancashire hillside, the town breathes and lives the sport.
Saturday night's game at the sold-out DW Stadium exudes an atmosphere of unmatched anticipation, with everyone in town being acutely aware of the magnitude of the event.
For those who have experienced victory on such grand stages in the past, the significance and impact of this occasion are not lost on them.
Shaun Wane, who has both played and coached Wigan to World Club Challenge triumphs, understands the weight of this event more than most.
Wane vividly recalls the iconic 1987 victory against Manly Warringah, a game etched in the memories of fans and townspeople alike.
The absence of tries did not diminish its brilliance, and the telling of that tale has become an integral part of the town's folklore.
Similarly, the younger generation holds the 2017 victory against Cronulla in high regard, marking another landmark achievement for Wigan.
As the England coach, Wane is committed to preserving the legacy and heritage of the club and town.
He immerses young players in the club's history, cultivating a deep appreciation for what it means to be a Wiganer.
The passion of the people, their love for the sport, and the determination to surpass expectations have always been defining traits of Wigan.
In a game that has often seen them overachieve, this clash against the Penrith Panthers presents another opportunity for Wigan to etch their name in rugby league history.
The town is abuzz with excitement, and the players are well aware of the weight of expectations upon their shoulders.
Wigan's chance at a fifth world championship is within reach, and they stand ready to seize the moment.