MIDLANDS HURRICANES managing director Eorl Crabtree believes the agreement of long-term contract extensions with coach Mark Dunning and his assistant Leigh Beattie provides a cornerstone for further embedding the club – and Rugby League – in Birmingham.
The pair, who previously worked together at Bradford and are part of the Scotland coaching set-up, have committed to 2029 as the Hurricanes takes up residence at a new ground at Avery Fields, home to Bournville Rugby Union Club in the south-west of the so-called ‘second city’.
Former Bradford coach Dunning took the Midlands reins in mid-2023, with Beattie following soon after, and their charges finished fifth in League One for the last two years running.
“I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve been able to secure Mark and Leigh for the next few years,” said Crabtree, the former Huddersfield and England forward who has been in post for a year.
“Retaining a coach and assistant of their quality is hugely important for this club and sends a clear message about the stability, progression and clear direction of Midlands Hurricanes.
“With our move to Avery Fields, we’re entering an exciting new chapter as a club and having Mark and Leigh committed is a key part of that.
“We now have alignment across the board, from our home base and facilities through to our coaching, playing philosophy and long-term ambitions.
“That shared vision is vital as we look to the next stage of the Hurricanes’ progression.
“The continuity they provide allows us to keep building properly, develop players, strengthen our culture and play a central role in growing Rugby League across the Midlands.
“For everyone connected to the club, this is a really positive step forward and I’m excited about what we can achieve together.”
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