Backroom duo leave Bradford

BRADFORD BULLS will today confirm a major shake-up of their backroom staff as they begin their attempt to re-discover past glories.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Jan 2010, 10:22 BST
Updated 7th Jan 2010, 10:22 BST

Assistant coach Basil Richards and strength and conditioning coach Martin Clawson have both departed Grattan Stadium by mutual agreement.

Head coach Steve McNamara initially informed his staff of a need for change last summer when the side were heading towards their worst finish in the Super League era.

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He has now appointed Australian Geoff Evans in a new role as head of physical performance but there are no immediate plans to install another assistant coach.

England Academy chief Richards and long-serving Clawson both had a year left on their contracts but were told by McNamara in July – with two months of the season still remaining – they were free to seek new challenges for 2010 and both have now reached settlements with the club.

It is believed Richards's fellow assistant coach Lee St Hilaire was similarly informed but has decided to see out his final year.

Many observers thought McNamara was lucky to escape the sack last season but he always retained the support of chairman Peter Hood.

Evans, 44, has previously worked with Wakefield,

St Helens, Huddersfield Giants and Huddersfield Town.

A qualified nutritionist, he has vast sports science experience and will be responsible for all aspects of the Bulls' physical performance from academy through to the first-team squad.