DANNY McGUIRE is hoping Chris Chester can have a similar influence on Castleford Tigers as he had at his previous club.
Chester has joined as director of rugby after three years at Leigh Leopards, during which time the club won the Championship and Challenge Cup.
“He has been really helpful; he is very active and is on the phone more than I’ve seen from anyone else. He is making things happen,” said Tigers coach McGuire.
“Recruitment and retention isn’t easy and there are lots of moving parts all the time. He has been really positive and has settled in really well.
“I’m excited to see what he can help us do and help us create.”
McGuire referenced just how well Chester had performed in a similar role at the Leopards, helping to unearth gems such as Tom Amone, Kai O’Donnell and Ethan O’Neill.
“He did a fantastic job at Leigh. His recruitment, numbers and success stories were really high. We are hoping that will happen here too,” McGuire said.
“He has experience in the game; he is in the office every morning telling us and the coaches what he feels.
“He will be a really good addition. His CV and what he’s done for Leigh is outstanding.
“He has a really good understanding of the market.”
While Castleford have won only three of eleven games this season, McGuire insists Chester has not had conversations about the club’s coaching long term.
He said: “I’ve not had a deep chat with him regarding the future. Chezzy is really busy with recruitment, looking at players for this and next year.
“I really feel like he has been scoping the environment and taking everything onboard. We have had plenty of conversations but nothing too deep like that.
“I am confident we can make things happen and turn things around.”
