McCormack quits Barrow

Steve McCormack has ended his tenure as Barrow coach on the eve of their clash with former club Widnes on Wednesday.

The Raiders boss has accepted a teaching job near to his native Wigan and informed the club of his decision to leave recently, and had been expected to remain at the club until the end of the season.

However, following Sunday’s defeat at Dewsbury, McCormack handed in his resignation on Tuesday morning.

Chairman Des Johnston said: “Following a series of meetings between myself and Steve over the last few weeks, Steve has informed me that he has been offered a full-time teaching post back in his home town of Wigan.

“Steve had to make a decision before tomorrow (August 18). We agreed before the Toulouse game that he would remain as head coach until the end of the season, however Steve felt with a starting date of September, he could no longer dedicate his full-time commitment to Barrow RL.

“It was decided this morning between myself and Steve that the club would not stand in his way and deny him this great opportunity.

“On a personal note, I have enjoyed thoroughly working with Steve and he has my utmost respect. I cannot speak highly enough of him.”

McCormack moved to Barrow in the close season after a spell at Gateshead, where he helped them survive relegation on the pitch from the Championship last year, until financial woes put paid to their second tier status.

He was sacked as Widnes coach in February 2009 after a four year spell with the Vikings which saw him guide them to two Grand Finals and a Northern Rail Cup triumph.

Prior to that, McCormack had won a league leader’s shield at Whitehaven, and guided them to two Grand Finals.

McCormack said: “I have loved every minute of my time at Barrow and would like to thank the supporters and directors for the opportunity.

“My relationship with Des Johnston has been first-class and I wish him and the club well for the future.

“I feel this decision is the best one for the club and my family, as I couldn’t commit to the responsibilities of coaching Barrow Raiders in a full-time capacity any longer.

“I met Des this morning and informed him of my decision. I would still like to stay in the game in a part-time coaching capacity, but at this moment in time, I cannot commit to both full-time roles.”