Huddersfield appoint Simon Woolford as head coach

Australian Simon Woolford has been appointed as the new Huddersfield head coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract.

The 43-year-old has left his coaching role with NRL club Newcastle Knights, where he was assistant to ex-Giants boss Nathan Brown.

Woolford – a former Canberra Raiders and St George Illawarra Dragons player – replaces Rick Stone, who was sacked in March with Chris Thorman placed in temporary charge.

Huddersfield are bottom of the Betfred Super League having won only two of their first 13 games.

“It’s a great honour to be trusted in this position at such a famous club as Huddersfield,” said Woolford.

“I know a lot of research went into me by the club and after doing my own research, I knew we would be a good match.

“I have had ambitions on being a head coach for some time now and after speaking with Nathan Brown and gaining his full support, this job just felt right.

“I have had the chance to watch several Giants games this season and formed some early views on where we can make some improvements.

“It’s certainly not going to be a case of coming in and waving a magic wand, it’s going to take some hard work and some buy-in from everyone involved at the club.

“I am totally committed to getting this great club back to where it belongs. I can’t wait to get cracking.”

Huddersfield managing director Richard Thewlis said “The decision on the head coach is probably the most important that the board make, and I have to say that as well as being a unanimous decision I felt it was made easier by Simon’s absolute passion, preparation and desire shown throughout our process of selection.

“He has looked in detail already at our roster, staffing structure and overall club set-up and is very excited to get over here as soon as possible.

“We sought advice and assistance from a number of highly respected coaches and administrators in the NRL and on all fronts Simon came up as the right man for us at this important time.”