Dave Woods named as new Whitehaven coach

Whitehaven have named former Castleford and Gateshead boss Dave Woods as their new head coach.

Woods led Castleford to their 2005 promotion, ironically beating Whitehaven 36-8 in the National League 1 Grand Final.

He won National League 2 with Gateshead in 2008, and also won Championship 1 with former club York.

The Australian said: “I’m very pleased, it’s a club I’ve tried to get to previously. Whitehaven is a club with potential, plus they’re back in the Championship.

“It’s always had a really good fanbase, a great support and it’s a club I’ve always kept an eye on.

“They’re passionate about the game over there, and it makes it an intimidating place to play.”

Woods succeeds fellow Australian Don Gailer, who was sacked last month following a disappointing campaign that saw them finish fourth, although that was enough to secure them promotion to the Championship.