Stokes reveals Super League regret

Former Whitehaven and Workington coach Ged Stokes has revealed he turned down a job in Super League during his time in Cumbria.

The New Zealander, 56, has returned Down Under to Australia after failing to find work since quitting the game having coached both west Cumbria clubs.

He moved to Workington in 2003, but was sacked for an alleged disciplinary breach, before receiving an out-of-court settlement days before a High Court hearing was due to begin.

The father of England cricketer Ben, then took the reigns at Whitehaven in 2008 following the departure of Paul Crarey, but was sacked in 2010 after a 13 game losing streak which ultimately resulted in their relegation from the Championship.

Stokes told the Times and Star newspaper: “The only regret I have is that I never took either of two positions offered to me when I was with Town.

“One of which was in Super League, but my decision not to go was based on my commitment and loyalty to Town and my belief that they were committed to me and the terms of my contract.

“One lives and learns and that is water under the bridge now, as is my time at Town and Haven.”

A prop during his playing days, Stokes played for Workington in 1982-83, and also earned representative honours for New Zealand.