WAKEFIELD TRINITY have in brought two highly-rated coaches from Leeds Rhinos.

John Bastian has been appointed the club’s head of youth, while Simon Bell becomes their head of talent, recruitment and operations.

Both have been key in developing and supporting young players at Leeds, with Bastian in particular helping to shape some of the brightest players in the game through his work at not only the Rhinos but also Warrington Wolves, Bradford Bulls and Hull KR.

Bastian, who has also previously been head coach at Featherstone Rovers, said: “I want to say a big thank you to Wakefield Trinity for giving us this opportunity.

“When we got the option to come I didn’t hesitate in accepting the role. Our goal is to make a huge difference here at the club when it comes to youth development.”

Bell spent 20 years at Leeds, working within the club’s academy recruitment and talent ID.

At Trinity, he will head up recruitment and scouting operations, working closely with community clubs, schools, and regional programmes to find and support promising players.

Bell said: “Thank you to the Ellis family (who own the club) and the coaching staff here at Wakefield for this opportunity.

“It’s exciting to be a part of this club with what is currently going on at the club with everything building.

“I know myself and John are looking forward to getting started and are going to work our damnedest to make sure Wakefield Trinity have a bright future with youth players coming through into the first team.”

Director of rugby Ste Mills said: “Securing the services of John and Simon is huge for Wakefield Trinity and we’re extremely happy to have them both on board.

“We feel that they are the best in the business at youth identification and development and their track records back that up.

“We’re building something long-term here at Wakefield Trinity and investing in youth development is a big part of that.

“Having John and Simon in the club now give these young talented players the best support and opportunity to succeed.”