Brian Noble leaves Toronto Wolfpack

James Gordon

Brian Noble has left his role as Director of Rugby at Toronto Wolfpack by mutual consent, the club has announced.

Noble, 58, has been with the Wolfpack since their inception in 2016, and was responsible for overseeing player development, recruitment and managing the day to day activities for players and coaching staff.

Chairman and CEO, Bob Hunter, said: “Brian has been an invaluable resource and asset to our organization right from the beginning. Our promotion into Super League wouldn’t have been possible without him.

“I don’t just speak for myself, but for the entire organization, as we wish Nobby the absolute best and can’t thank him enough for what he has meant to our Club.”

Noble was originally sounded out to become the coach of the then newly formed close, before recommending the appointment of Paul Rowley and taking an upstairs role.

The former Great Britain coach was in charge at Salford in 2013/14 and previously coached Crusaders, but made his name at hometown club Bradford, who he served with distinction as a player, before coaching them to three Super League titles, three World Club Challenges and a Challenge Cup.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Toronto Wolfpack and have so much pride in helping this organization grow and to see us blaze a trail for Rugby League in North America.

“It has been an experience that I’ll never forget and feel it’s one of my greatest accomplishments. I have been considering my future since the beginning of the year and I feel that now is the right time for me to move to a new challenge in the game.

“My mission has been achieved with the delivery of a strong football infrastructure for the Club both in Toronto and the UK while being part of a brand that continues to attract some of the best talent globally.

“There’s a great sense of accomplishment knowing that I was able to help the Wolfpack organization in breaking Rugby League out of its traditional heartlands and take the game to new audiences in North America.

“I would like to thank David Argyle, Toronto Wolfpack players, and staff and the team’s incredible fan base on both sides of the Atlantic, who have always made me feel extremely welcome, and wish them success in their maiden Super League season.

“The team is in good hands with Brian McDermott and will be a team to be reckoned with for years to come.”