Watson bids Swinton fans a fond farewell

Former Swinton Lions coach Ian Watson has wished the club’s fans all the best, as they look forward to a new era under John Duffy.

Watson has departed from the Lions to take up a post as an assistant coach at Salford Red Devils, and wrote a letter to Swinton fans to explain his reasons for leaving.

“The decision to hand in my notice at Swinton was a very difficult one, not just due to everything we have been through in recent times but also because of the deep affection my family holds for the Lions,” Watson writes in the letter, the full text of which can be read on the Lions’ official website.

“However the opportunity to further my career as an assistant coach within the top level of our game was too valuable to turn down.

“When notifying the board of my intentions it was agreed that a notice period would be served to allow for the club to go about planning for the future and making any appointments, however this period was shorter than both parties originally intended as the club acted to put plans in place quickly.

“I would like to thank you all for the many kind wishes received since this news broke. As many of you will know my family have connections with the club going back many years and we have many friends at the club, a situation which I’m sure will continue long in to the future.

“I wish John [Duffy] all the best and I am confident he will do a great job as Swinton look forward to a bright future with a committed group of staff, volunteers and players.”