BARROW RAIDERS outside back Shane Toal will combine playing duties with a new role as part of coach Paul Crarey’s backroom staff.
The 30-year-old former Scotland international, who has been granted a testimonial by the RFL, (it’s at home to a Bravehearts side on Saturday, January 10), has been appointed as the Raiders’ new strength and conditioning coach, working closely with Paddy Maher.
The Barrow-born player, who made his debut in 2015 after signing from Ulverston, said: “I spoke to (chairman) Steve Neale about it and told him I’d be interested in the position.
“I’m quite into my own training and have done enough pre-seasons over the years to know what can help the lads.
“I’ve got ideas of how I want to do stuff, and I’ve been working closely with Paddy Maher, who has been helping out a lot as well.
“Body management is a big area of focus, as keeping the lads on the field when the season begins is the main thing.
“I know what helps and what doesn’t help us players, and I don’t want to be running everyone into the ground.
“With the build-up to the season being a little shorter this year, we can use the pre-season games as a good way to improve our match fitness, in addition to the training programmes the lads have been given.”
Toal is closing in on 200 appearances for Barrow, and Neale added: “When we advertised for the role, Shane expressed his interest, and we are delighted to support him with his career path.”