Whitehaven’s head coach Jonty Gorley has completed his off-the-field team ahead of a return to training next month.
Gorley, who has stepped up to the role with Gary Charlton moving to be director of rugby, will gather his squad together on November 17.
He has appointed a number two and a conditioner while welcoming back a familiar face from last season.
Gorley explained: “There will be four of us involved at training sessions and I’m really pleased with the team I’ve got off the field of play.
“I had to look for an assistant when Scott McAvoy decided he wasn’t going to continue.
“He had taken a break last season after numerous years as a player and then coaching. He has a young family and I could understand his decision.
“He says never say never but he’s happy doing what he’s doing now away from the pro game with his wife and kids.”
Joining the backroom staff at Whitehaven will be the Kells coach Stephen Kirkbride and the amateur club’s conditioner Simon Brannon.
“Stephen was at Warrington as a kid and played for Whitehaven as a pro and since becoming a coach has earned a very good reputation.
“I know people he’s worked with and coached and they all speak very highly of his qualities. A family man and a Whitehaven lad I know he’s going to fit in perfectly.
“Also coming from Kell as conditioner is Simon, who has a great reputation in that role.
“Simon is steeped in rugby league and knows what’s required from that aspect and again I’m looking forward to working with him.
“Kevin Hetherington is a former Whitehaven player who joined us last season and will be back to complete the coaching team.
“I’m happy that we have good lads in place and am looking forward to meeting up with the playing squad again on November 17 as we start to prepare for what is going to be a very exciting and competitive season.”
