Chambers takes Lions hot seat
Warrington Wolves have confirmed that Gary Chambers has accepted the position of head coach at partner club Swinton Lions.
Gary will take on the role at the Championship club with immediate effect following the departure of Steve McCormack last month.
This role will see Gary leave the Warrington club after almost 25 years service making his playing debut back in 1989. The former prop forward went on to make 210 appearances, crossing for 10 tries before his final game in July 2000.
Since then the Cumbrian has gained many years of coaching experience including under the guidance of former first team coach Paul Cullen and at the helm of the club’s academy, most recently as head coach of the under 19s. Other coaching roles over the years include with both England A and Cumbria.
The current partnership between the Warrington and Swinton clubs means that many of the Wolves upcoming players will still benefit from the guidance and tutelage of Gary throughout this season
Having enjoyed his time at Warrington Gary is now looking forward to a new chapter in his career. He said: “Warrington has been my life since I moved here when I was a boy. All the friends I’ve made at the club have been like a family to me. They’ve looked after me and I can’t thank them enough. But things have to move on in competitive sport and it’s my time now to give it a go. There’s a good link between the clubs so I’ll still be around but am now focussed on what I can do with Swinton.
“It’s a challenge that I am really looking forward to. I am aware of where the club is and I know what needs to be done. I’ve been impressed with what John and Paul Kidd have set up. I know what their values are and they are similar to my own so it struck a chord. There has been a lot of turnaround over the last few years and it’s about developing structures from the inside. That will be my big target. I can’t wait to get started.”
Swinton chairman John Kidd said: “I’m delighted to announce that Gary is joining us as head coach. There was a lot of interest but we were particularly impressed with Gary’s experience and track record and feel he is the right choice to continue where Steve McCormack left off.”
Gary’s first game in charge alongside assistant coaches Ian Watson and Marlon Billy will be at Batley on Saturday afternoon.
A Warrington spokesperson said: “All at Warrington Wolves would like to thank Gary for his years of valuable service both as a player and coach, and for his invaluable contribution in developing the strong youth structure we now have at the club. Gary has made many friends whilst at Warrington and he will be missed at The Halliwell Jones Stadium but we wish him well for this new stage in his career.”