WOOLSTON Rovers chiefs believe the arrival of Lewis Charnock will bring another dimension to their coaching of open-age teams in the 2023 season

‘Dougie’ has joined the Rovers coaching staff after recently retiring from the professional game, having played for St Helens, Barrow Raiders, Oldham and Swinton Lions during his career, as well has having stints at Bradford Bulls, Leigh Centurions and Rochdale Hornets on loan while he was at Saints.

He will work alongside Billy Sheen with the National Conference League side and look to grow and improve the squad.

Rovers head of rugby Mal Holt said: “The addition of Billy Sheen as NCL head coach last season took us to another level, and now adding ‘Dougie’ to the team takes us up another level again.

"His experience, being fresh out of the professional game, can only benefit our players whether they are young or old. When we knew that ‘Dougie’ was available we moved quickly to chat with him and get him on board.”

Charnock added: “This is an exciting opportunity to step into coaching with an established club and squad who are moving in the right direction, but also with a coaching team that have been in place for a while and are keen to develop even further.

"I am looking forward to working with Billy, Mal and also Liam Lawton (North West Men's League team coach) and hope that I am able to use my experience to add the extras that they are looking for to deliver the club’s goals.”