Warrington search for new coach after Smith exit

Warrington are on the hunt for a new coach for 2018 after parting company with Tony Smith by mutual consent.

Smith will leave the Wolves at the end of the season after eight years in charge, which included three Challenge Cup titles, two League Leaders Shields and three Super League Grand Final appearances.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my nine years at the club and feel that it’s now in the best interests of all for us to go in different directions. 

“I’m grateful for the relationship I’ve had with the board, in particular Simon Moran, and I’d like to thank them for their support over the time I’ve been at Warrington. 

“I’d like to think that while this has been a tough year, the club has progressed in the time I’ve been there in many ways, on and off the field, and is now in a position that means they can go on to bigger and greater things. 

“I’d like to thank all the staff and playing staff during my time at the club, as well as all the supporters. I hope you’ve enjoyed the successes we’ve had as much as the players and I have over the years.”

Smith has been linked with a move to Catalans, while Wolves chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick is heading Down Under to find his replacement.

Former Wigan boss Michael Maguire has been linked with the job at the Halliwell Jones Stadium since his own departure from South Sydney Rabbitohs, but the smart money has him staying in the NRL, likely with Gold Coast.

Warrington owner Simon Moran said of Smith: “We would like to thank Tony for everything he has done for us here at Warrington. He came in 2009 and turned the club around.”