Paul Rowley resigns as coach of Leigh Centurions
Thursday 28 January 2016 16:48, UK
Paul Rowley has resigned as Leigh Centurions head coach just 10 days before the start of the new Championship season.
Rowley had guided Leigh to the Championship title in the past two seasons and had signed Super League players such as Rangi Chase, Corey Paterson, Harrison Hanson and Willie Tonga ahead of the 2016 campaign.
In a statement Rowley, a former Leigh and England hooker who has been on the club's backroom staff since 2008, said: "It is with a heavy heart I have decided to resign as coach.
"My reasons for leaving are personal and I will not comment further in public or in private.
"I thank the players for everything they have given me and the club. My only regret is that I will not be there this year to lead them once more."
Leigh confirmed their board of directors received notification in writing of Rowley's resignation.
Club owner Derek Beaumont said: "It's a very sad day for Leigh Centurions and it is certainly not something that we wanted or expected to happen. "It is still sinking in and I would have preferred time to pass but inevitable media pressure requires the club to respond officially in order to remove any speculation.
"Whilst we are extremely disappointed and shocked we wish Paul Rowley well and I hope our fans will do the same. He is a proud, passionate man and deserves the utmost respect which he will always receive from me personally."
