Halifax appoint Simon Grix as coach on two-and-a-half year deal

Halifax have appointed Simon Grix as head coach after a successful spell as interim.

Grix, 33, has overseen four consecutive wins since taking over from Richard Marshall, who departed after five years in charge.

Club director, Christian Lister, said: “The decision to switch the Head Coach mid-season was not one taken in haste and the board had discussed the club’s league standing, defensive record and overall performance at length before making the approach to Richard Marshall and placing him on garden leave and opening up lines of communication with Simon Grix.

“The board are today clarifying the Head Coach position by appointing Simon as Head Coach until the end of the season.

“We have also given Simon a full two year contract from next season and will assist him in building the future of Halifax.

“He has our full support and we have every confidence in him – four wins in a row, every fans dream of descending upon Wembley in our midst and a squad that has misfired in early season after significant investment – looks solid and confident now – just shows what he’s capable of in a very short window of time.

“His vision, on field knowledge and tactical skill makes him the perfect answer and solution. This is his home town and Halifax RLFC is his home.”

Scott Murrell has been named assistant coach, and the club have revealed he will join its commercial team when his playing contract ends.

Former Ireland international Grix started his career at Halifax before a 10 year spell at Warrington in Super League, where he scored 47 tries in 164 appearances.

He returned to Halifax for the 2016 season, and was joined by brother Scott earlier this season.