McNamara praised for long-term plan

Bradford Bulls' head of youth development Paul Medley praised Steve McNamara for making sure the club could build for its future, even at the expense of short-term success.
By The Newsroom
Published 5th Jul 2010, 13:37 BST
Updated 5th Jul 2010, 13:37 BST

The Bradford head coach leaves to take up the England role full-time at the end of the season having failed to lift a trophy in his four years at Odsal.

He has spent money on over-hauling the club's Academy , with youngsters Danny Addy, Steve Crossley, Joe Wardle and Cain Southernwood making their Super League debuts and Medley believes that input has been invaluable.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"I'd like to thank Steve for his insurmountable contribution to the securing and retention of junior players whilst in his tenure," he said, after announcing 11 new players had joined the club's Academy.

"I'm personally indebted to the significant short-term sacrifices he has made for the long-term benefit of Bradford.

"This year's recruitment has been really successful and I'm delighted with the quality of players we have signed.

"It is a major statement of intent about what we are aiming to achieve in the future and we have seen recently four players make their debuts in Super League. We are confident this next group of players will continue that process."

England Schoolboys back-row John Bateman, from Dudley Hill ARLFC, leads the way while fellow back-row George Marchant, from Lock Lane ARLFC, is the nephew of former star Tony Marchant.

Related topics:Bradford BullsEnglandBradfordJohn Bateman