Salford Red Devils have announced the return of former player Cory Paterson, who has taken up the vacant player welfare and team manager role.
Paterson spent the 2015 Betfred Super League season as a player for Salford, with spells at Newcastle Knights, North Queensland Cowboys, Hull KR, Wests Tigers, Leigh Centurions and Toronto Wolfpack as well. The Australian also represented the Indigenous All Stars on three occasions.
Speaking on returning to the Red Devils, Paterson said: “I’m really excited to be returning to the Club, I’ve made some great memories here and met some great people.
“When Rowls (Rowley) said there’s a position open in the player welfare side, I thought that’s right up my alley. Rowls is a very good friend of mine having played under him.”
“I’m really excited to be back in rugby league, I’ve had three years away from it. The main thing I’m looking forward to is being back in the environment with the boys and the coaching staff.
“We’re building a good strong squad here and the Club is moving in the right direction and I just hope I can play a part in any future success.”
Head coach Paul Rowley commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Cory to the Club. As an ex-Salford player, he’s already familiar with the city and its supporters and has played with and against many of our players.
“I’ve coached Cory on two occasions and he’s always shown a passion for player welfare and wellbeing. He’s the perfect fit and knows exactly what a winning culture looks like and needs.”
Director of rugby and operations, Ian Blease, added: “I’m delighted to have Cory returning to Salford as the Player Welfare & Team Manager.
“He is someone who knows the Club well as a former player and I have no doubt that he will only strengthen our back room setup, giving sound and honest advice from his experiences in life, and the game, to all the club’s players & staff.”
