Leigh Leopards legend Martyn Ridyard has returned to the club after being appointed the club’s new head of youth.
Ridyard spent a combined total of 11 seasons at Leigh as a player over two different spells, racking up 250 appearances and more than 2000 points for the club. As such, he is considered to be something of a Leigh legend with his last outing for the Centurions, as they were known then, coming in 2019.
The appointment comes after making the decision to hang up his boots at the age of 39 in September following spells in the lower leagues with Swinton Lions, Oldham and finally Rochdale Hornets.
He replaces Kieron Purtill in the role, with Purtill confirmed to be leaving his position ahead of a reported switch to Super League rivals Wakefield Trinity.
Of course, this is Ridyard’s first role in the game since his retirement but Leigh CEO Neil Jukes has labelled his return to Leigh as a ‘huge coup’, while also paying tribute to the outgoing Purtill.
“I’d firstly like to thank Kieron on behalf of Derek, myself and the board for his outstanding contribution in this role and the foundations set for years to come,” Jukes said. “In addition to this for his efforts and success with our Women’s Super League team. We wish him well and are sure he won’t be a stranger to the Leopards’ Den in future years
“Martyn’s appointment, I believe, is a huge coup for the club. He served the club with distinction as a player and even in his later years whilst playing away from the club was always embedded into ours.
“Martyn’s passion for the club and in particular its young players in the community was clear to see. He’s a people’s person and has strong links with its fans, the town, and all its community clubs which is an integral part of the role.
“I’m sure with the support of the outstanding existing staff we have within the academy he will look to build upon those foundations laid.”
Speaking on his Leigh Leopards appointment, Ridyard said: “Firstly I’d like to thank Derek and Jukesy for this opportunity.
“Thanks to Kieron and Stu (Reserve team coach Stu Littler) for all their support through this process.
“I’m really excited to be back at my hometown club which was a massive part of my playing career.
“I’m looking forward to starting a new role within the game and I can’t wait to get started and carry on building for the future.”
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