Stanley Gene to leave Hull KR

Hull Kingston Rovers assistant first team coach Stanley Gene has left the club with the former Papua New Guinea international now expected to take up a full-time role with Gateshead – just as League Express told you this past Monday.

Gene, who made more than 170 appearances for the Robins as a player, has divided his time this season between his position at the KC Lightstream Stadium and working part-time as head coach of the Thunder.

Steering KR’s partner club to the play-offs in Championship 1, he is now set to take up a full-time position in the North East after Rovers boss Chris Chester opted to bring in his own staff for 2015.

Speaking to www.hullkr.co.uk, Gene said: “I’m disappointed that I won’t be staying at Rovers, a club that means a lot to me, but I wish everybody here all the best for next season.

“I had a chat with Chezzy when he took over about what he had in mind for next year and he was up front about wanting to bring his own people in. It was tough to take at first but I understand his reasons why.

“I’ve learned a lot over the past three years and I’m grateful to Hull KR for giving me an opportunity to come back to the club after my playing days finished. I love the club and the fans and I leave with some great memories. I’ll be in the stands supporting the team as often as I can next season and who knows, maybe I’ll be back here as a coach one day.

“You have to move on in life and I’m excited about taking on a bigger role at Gateshead. I’m really proud of what the team achieved this season and my focus now is on having another good year in 2015.”

Gene first joined Hull KR as a player in 1996 and went on to enjoy a successful Super League career with Huddersfield, Bradford and Hull FC before returning to Rovers after their promotion to the top flight in 2007.

Ending his 15-year playing career in the British game with Halifax, the World Club Challenge winner joined the Robins’ coaching staff after hanging up his boots three years ago and served his apprenticeship with the club’s academy sides as well as the first team.

Chief executive Mike Smith said: “Stan is a true Rovers legend and he has done a terrific job on the coaching staff, but Chris Chester wants to appoint his own backroom staff and Stan understands that.

“He has done a great job up at Gateshead this season and our young players have really developed under the dual registration system. I’ve no doubt the Thunder will continue to improve under Stan’s leadership and having him there will strengthen the partnership between the two clubs even further.

“I’m sure Stan himself will also go on to be the head coach of a Super League club one day and with his passion for Hull Kingston Rovers we would never rule out a return.

“In the meantime, he leaves with our appreciation for everything he has done for the club and our best wishes for the future.”