Familiar face takes the reins

CHRIS HOUGH will split his time between Rochdale Hornets and Waterhead ARFLC.

RUGBY:
CHRIS Hough is back where it all began after becoming the new coach of Waterhead.

One of the Rochdale Hornets men responsible for breaking Oldham RL hearts in last season’s Championship One play-off final, he has grabbed the family baton at Peach Road.

Chris’s dad, Mick, was a playing legend at Waterhead. With caps for Greater Britain amateurs and Lancashire and a renowned local talent scout, he was revered by many. He died in 2009, at the age of 54.

“I know my dad would have been proud,” said Chris, who played at the club from the age of four to 15, alongside Leeds and England great Kevin Sinfield. “He loved it at Waterhead. The club has a real family atmosphere about it.

“I watched a few games last season and there are some talented under-16s and under-17s. With a few older, experienced heads as well, it should make for a good mix. I’m raring to go.”

Although Chris says his playing days are over at Hornets — “I’ve hung up my boots unless they are short” — he will continue to assist coach Ian Talbot.

“I started my playing days at Waterhead and it seems fitting that I’m starting my rugby league coaching career at Waterhead. It is also nice to give something back.”

Waterhead chairman Michael Bradshaw said Chris was his “only choice” as the coach to take them back to National Conference League Division One following relegation last season.

“I asked him after the play-off final if he fancied coaching Waterhead,” said Bradshaw. “Everyone knows that Chris gave 100-per-cent as a player and I know he’ll do the same as coach.”