Crusaders turn to Harris

The Crusaders have named Iestyn Harris as their new head coach after Brian Noble opted to step down.

Noble, who coached Bradford, Wigan and Great Britain, confirmed his decision to step down on Sunday after just one season in charge.

However the Crusaders have moved quickly to promote Harris, who was Noble’s assistant last season.

Noble could still have a part to play with the Wrexham-based side, though, after being offer a “behind-the-scenes role”.

Harris, who has coached the Welsh national side for two years and also had a spell at Featherstone Rovers, spoke of his delight at landing the role.

“I’m really excited about the challenge ahead of me and for the Crusaders,” he said.
Going places

“I wouldn’t have taken up this role if I didn’t believe the club was going places. The things that have been done over the last 12 months with Brian in charge have been really good and we have to keep that progression going.

“I will be looking to improve the side for the 2011 Engage Super League season so we can build on our play-off position that we earned last season.

“This is a club with huge potential. The players showed last year what they are capable of and we have some fantastic young talent here at the Crusaders.

“The fans are brilliant and I know everyone can’t wait for Super League to get started again. The club’s ambitions are to be a top-four side in Super League.

“It will be hard work to achieve this and there’s still a lot that needs to be done. It will be a big challenge but it’s one that I’m going to enjoy. Together as a club we can ensure the future of Super League in Wales and I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Natural choice

Crusaders chairman Ian Roberts admitted Harris was the natural choice as Noble’s successor.

He stated: “We are delighted to appoint Iestyn into the position of head coach.

“We feel that he has done an outstanding job at the Crusaders so far, especially his involvement in the development of young Welsh players both for club and country.

“His heart is with rugby league in Wales, he is 100% focused on the present and future of the game here at Crusaders and Wales as a whole and he is a consummate professional.

“We are certain that he is going to continue the good work that Brian Noble has started here and we can’t wait for 2011. Iestyn has shown, both with Crusaders and Wales, what a talented coach he is. It’s an exciting time.”