Exclusive: Great Britain legend Stuart Fielden explains reasons for taking head coach role with amateur side Beverley

One of the most surprising stories in rugby league last week surrounded Bradford Bulls, Wigan Warriors and Great Britain legend Stuart Fielden.

Fielden, remembered once upon a time as the game’s best forward, was named the head coach of National League Conference Division 3 side Beverley.

The 43-year-old will take on the role alongside his full-time teaching job at Archbishop Sentamu Academy in Hull.

It was an announcement that came as a surprise to many given Fielden’s standing in the game, but he has now given some insight into how the appointment came about.

“I’ve previously coached the first and academy teams at Huddersfield Giants in 2013 and 2014, but it (coaching) wasn’t particularly on my mind,” Fielden told Serious About Rugby League.

“I had offered to coach in my own time at the school where I work, but they didn’t take me up on that offer.

“Then recently I bumped into some of the Beverley players socially. Word had travelled that I was living in Beverley.

“Next thing I met up with Scott Taylor who was a previous coach at Beverley and he then passed my details on to Ian Potter who runs the club.”

The appointment of Fielden is a massive coup for Beverley, who have been looking for a coach since they were relegated from National League Conference Division 2 last season – a campaign in which they won only six games.

Fielden’s name alone is likely to attract a host of new talent to the club, with the 25-time capped Great Britain forward once the most expensive player in the British game.

“I was attracted to the role because they are a good set of people and it’s a challenge,” said Fielden, as he explained his reasons for taking the job to Serious About Rugby League.

He added: “There are good facilities in place and a great set of players. We have lots of young players who have great potential.

“I feel there could be some great strides made with some stability, along with the right structures and processes.

“It’s true that I don’t have any experience with NCL, but Scott Taylor was previously involved and intends to still lend a hand.

“I believe we can win promotion. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think we could do something special.

“My long-term aims are for us is to gain promotions, with structure, standards and expectations in place so the Beverley club has strong foundations to grow off in the future.”