Ex-Castleford Tigers coach and Leeds Rhinos captain Gary Mercer finds new coaching role

Former Leeds Rhinos rugby league international and Castleford Tigers boss Gary Mercer has joined Harrogate Rugby Club as defence coach.

Mercer, who led the Tigers in an ill-fated half season in 2004 when they were relegated from the top flight for the first time after an illustrious career as a player, will join alongside Director of Rugby Martyn Wood.

The former Rhinos captain made more than 150 appearances for Leeds and represented his country 21 times.

“I’m very much looking forward to taking on the new role of defence coach with the Aces,” Mercer told the Stray Ferret.

“I am very confident about the team’s future. An excellent plan has been put in place and things are certainly happening at the club.”

Mercer also played rugby league for Bradford, Warrington and Halifax.

Martyn Wood said: “Gary Mercer has incredible experience in both codes at club and international level, and we will be drawing upon his knowledge to produce the required step-change in our defence.

“Having Gary join us will add a new range of skills to our coaching set-up. Working alongside our existing head coach Sam Fox, we are expecting great things.”