Roden relishes his next mission

Date published: 07 January 2014


ROUGHYEDS’ Neil Roden starts a new challenge tonight.

Following his retirement from playing last season after scoring a record 113 tries in 296 cup and league appearances for Roughyeds, 33-year-old Roden succeeds Phil Costin as coach of the under-20 squad.

Club captain for four of his 12 Oldham seasons, Roden will talk to the Roughyeds' youngsters before they start pre-season training this evening.

"It's going to be a big learning curve for me, but I'm looking forward to it immensely," said Roden.

"It's my first crack at coaching, but I'm keen to give it a go. I need to see if I enjoy it, but more importantly whether I'm any good at it. I'm sure it will be an eye opener.

Costin (50) has left Roughyeds after three seasons, the last as coach of the under-20s and the two before that as boss of the under-18s.

He said: “I learned a lot in three brilliant years with Roughyeds. I like to think I did a good job. It was a source of great pride to me that last season no fewer than eight local boys played for Oldham in the under-20s.

“I am and always will be an Oldham fan. Neil (Roden) has spoken to me and I wish him and the club all the best for the future.

Said chairman Hamilton: “I’m sorry to see Phil go. He worked very hard, often in difficult circumstances. He always got on with the job without making a fuss. We wish him well in his coaching career.”