Wasps have a new coach
NEWS: Wasps announced that Martin Gleeson will be joining the club as assistant attack coach ahead of the 2019/20 season.
The former Rugby League star will be making the switch from Salford Red Devils where he has been operating as the Super League side’s assistant coach in charge of their attack since 2014.
Gleeson’s role will concentrate on supporting attack and backs coach Lee Blackett whilst also supporting the wider team to help achieve the rugby department’s goals.
Gleeson will bring additional expertise and depth to Dai Young’s coaching group, which already includes Blackett, defence coach Ian Costello and forwards coach Andy Titterrell.
Gleeson will arrive with plenty of experience having impressed in his coaching role at Salford since he retired from playing Rugby League in 2014.
Prior to taking on that role, the 39-year-old enjoyed a notable career as a player, receiving international recognition for both Great Britain and England as a centre. Gleeson represented a number of prestigious Super League teams during his career including Wigan Warriors, Huddersfield Giants, St Helens, Warrington Wolves, Hull F.C. and Salford - winning the Super League in 2002, 2010 and the Challenge Cup in 2004.
Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young said: "We have operated with a smaller coaching team than most Premiership clubs for a while now.
"The plan was always to bolster it and I’m pleased to have found Martin, who is an exciting young coach.
"I believe he can really add to what we are trying to build here at Wasps.
"Martin has forged a very strong reputation as a quality coach within Rugby League, having made a big impact with Salford.
"Our current coaches have done an excellent job. I’m really pleased with how they have developed in their first Premiership coaching roles, and with Martin coming on board I am really pleased with how our set-up is looking ahead of the new season.
"Our attack has been a strong part of our game and we have been one of the top try-scoring teams in the Premiership for a number of seasons. Lee has done a great job for us, but I now feel that attack is more than a one-man job.
“We took a step back last season from where we would have liked to have been. Between the two of them, I believe they will complement each other and get our attack back to where we want it to be."
Gleeson added: "I’m thrilled to be making the move to Rugby Union and to be joining a team of Wasps’ calibre.
"I’ve had a fantastic time with Salford, but I feel now is the right time for a new challenge.
"Premiership Rugby is one of the most competitive leagues in Rugby Union so this is certainly a challenge I’m relishing, and I can’t wait to meet the team."