Tuesday 22 May 2018 16:20, UK
Shaun Wane has said he would be open to coaching in rugby union after announcing on Monday that he is to leave Wigan at the end of the season.
The Warriors head coach has decided to seek a fresh challenge after spending six-and-a-half years in charge at the DW Stadium.
Wane, 53, who made his first-team debut as a player for Wigan in 1982 and also worked as a scout at the club before becoming head coach, insists he has no other job lined up at this stage and has plenty of time to consider his options.
However, he believes he has a lot to offer after his experiences at Wigan and has skills which could transfer to another sport such as rugby union.
Wane told Sky Sports News: "I've been here a long time. I've been here like 30 years as a coach, a scout and a player. So I just felt it was right for me and my family. I need a new challenge.
"I've been around this place a long, long time and I've had a fantastic time. The Wigan fans have taken me to their hearts and really looked after me and for that I am very, very grateful.
"I just feel the time's right. I love many other sports and I just want to chance my arm and try doing something else.
"It was difficult, no question. Telling the players yesterday (Monday) was the worst thing ever. But it's just the way it is.
"I think I can offer something to another sport, whether it is in rugby league, or in rugby union, whatever sport it is, I'm open minded. I just feel the time is right for a change.
"We have a fantastic culture [at Wigan] which is the envy of many sports. We've had many, many rugby union clubs - international rugby union clubs - here seeing what we do, and we're very, very proud of what we do here at Wigan.
"I've helped create this as well. I've played my part, along with a lot of very talented players and people, so I'm happy. I just want to challenge myself and do something else."
Wane says he remains focused on the job in hand at Wigan and is keen to bow out on a high by picking up some more silverware this season.
He said: "My main plan is trying to beat Hull KR on Friday. We trained today and that's my obsession.
"I'm here until the end of October and I've got a lot of time to have a look and see what comes about. But my obsession is Wigan at the minute.
"I said to the players, I'm going to work harder. I'm going to work even more hours than I work now.
"I'm going to make sure that we are better prepared and just try and get a win every single weekend. If we do that, then hopefully we can bring some silverware in."
