Monday 11 July 2016 10:41, UK
Rick Stone has been appointed the new head coach of Huddersfield Giants.
The Australian has agreed a two and a half year contract with the former Newcastle and Fiji Head Coach.
The 49-year-old is planning to fly to the UK ahead of Huddersfield's match with St Helens, and will be assisted by former Giants' players Chris Thorman and Luke Robinson.
The club' managing director Richard Thewlis said: "Firstly, I have to say that the level of interest in our position was overwhelming and I thank all those who showed a desire to become Giants coach at a very difficult time at the club.
"It is certainly a morale boost to see that we are still viewed as a highly attractive proposition both in the UK and overseas.
"In Rick Stone we believe we have an outstanding head coach who fits the bill superbly for what we at the Giants want. He has head coach experience at NRL and international level and his CV is outstanding in the way he has worked his way to the very top of his profession with many successes along the way.
"He has taken a knock or two as all coaches do I guess but he's had a little rest to recharge the batteries so to speak and we are convinced he is the right man to take us forward.
"We face a huge battle in the remaining nine games of the season and he is aware of that."
He has head coach experience at NRL and international level and his CV is outstanding
Stone added: "I'm delighted to get the opportunity at Huddersfield Giants - simply delighted. I have had a short period out of the full time game, probably my first for around 25 years and I'm very keen to get back into the coaching arena.
"Top jobs such as this one don't come around very often but I'm ready to go and really can't get there quick enough.
"I know the club has some very short term goals in terms of wins needed in whatever league structure we end up in after 23 rounds but I've always believed that results tend to take care of themselves if you work hard, prepare well and commit to your teammates which are key parts of my coaching style.
"I'll give honesty and demand it back and I'm looking forward to getting into the club and working with everyone there as soon as possible."
