Halifax boss Simon Grix signs new deal

Josh McAllister
Simon Grix

Photo courtesy of Halifax Panthers

Halifax have announced that head coach Simon Grix has signed a new three-year deal with the club. 

The new contract will see the former Super League player in charge at the Shay until at least the end of 2024.

Grix was originally appointed interim coach in 2019 following the departure of Richard Marshall. He led the Panthers to a famous Challenge Cup quarter final victory over rivals Bradford. That win secured a memorable semi-final tie with St Helens, becoming the first Championship side to feature in the semi-finals of the competition since 2006.

The former Ireland international began his career with Halifax in 2002, and returned to the club in 2016 following a 10-year stint with Warrington.

The club have also added former players Liam Finn and Scott Grix to their backroom staff.

Simon Grix on new contract

“I’m obviously happy to have agreed a deal with the club, for what is my short-term future in coaching,” said Grix.

“I am grateful for the backing of the board, trusting me in what I see as a privileged position in coaching this club.

“I am in the early stages of my coaching career and excited at the challenges we have ahead as a club in our collective efforts to move forward each year in all areas of the organisation.”

“I’m sure he will coach Super league’

Football director Ian Croad added: “We’re really pleased to have Simon as head coach for the next three seasons.

“I’m sure he will coach Super league in the not-too-distant future, and we want that to be at Halifax.

“The Panthers are already on a journey and he is the right man to steer the ship. Having had to deal with some really difficult conditions it is now time to make the moves on and off the field to prepare for the next level.

“Looking at the team for 2022 those plans are well and truly on track. Now more than ever we need the town to get behind Simon and the team.”

Halifax recruitment

The Panthers are looking to be a strong outfit in 2022. Former Super League pair Kyle Wood and Joe Arundel have made the move for the 2022 Championship season. Louis Jouffret, Cory Aston and Matty Gee are also among the new faces to join the club.