Cooke extends with Leigh

Leigh assistant coach Paul Cooke has extended his contract with the club until the end of November 2018.

Cooke joined Leigh midway through the 2016 season after finishing his commitments with Doncaster Knights RUFC where he had been engaged as skills and backs coach since 2013.

In his first full season as player-coach with Doncaster in 2014 he was chosen as Kingstone Press Championship Coach of the Year.

Leigh Centurions owner Derek Beaumont said: “I am delighted to bring Paul’s contract in line with the rest of the coaching team.

“When we first agreed terms with Paul it was a two-year contract, which is always sensible whilst each party evaluates the other.

“I have seen at first-hand what a clever, extremely knowledgeable and great guy he is. He has had a significant impact on this team and works well with Jukesy and the rest of the coaching department.

“Whilst very firm but equally as fair he is highly respected by the players and his insight into the game is second to none.

“The way he has worked with Martyn Ridyard in itself is testament to his ability and I am in particular looking forward to watching that relationship grow and seeing Martyn fulfil the potential Paul sees in him.

“I have no doubt this will be a popular move with everyone at the Club, not least our fans.

“I am confident this coaching team is going to become a formidable group that I hope can grow and prosper together for many years where they feel valued and in a seat with real potential to achieve something.”