Head coach Jon Ellis leaves West Wales Raiders

West Wales Raiders RLFC have released head coach Jon Ellis with immediate effect.

Club chairman Andrew Thorne said: “This has been one of the hardest decisions that the board and myself have had to make. Jon has been a stalwart of the club and has helped the club grow since it started in Mynydd y Garreg. However where we are now and where we need to be, are miles apart.

“Jon is a fantastic coach and has been involved in the development of so many young players for the past eight years, some of whom are in Super League today, but what the club needs at the moment is more than a coach. We have to change the culture that is embedded in Rugby League in Wales and to do that we need to look for someone who can manage players as well as coach them.

​“Changes like this are not nice for all involved and although Jon is not directly involved in the first team, I hope everyone respects the work and effort he has put in to make sure Rugby League in Wales is still visible.

​“I personally would like to thank Jon for everything I have learned from him and hope he will remain involved in the club in the future.

​“We have yet to appoint a replacement so Phil Carleton (who coached South Wales from 2016-17) will take over on a temporary basis until one can be found. The club will be looking for someone who can dedicate more time to the role to commit not only to coaching but to everything that is needed to create a culture that players and supporters can be proud of.”