In a reshuffle to the set-up, Jordan Robinson steps down as coach and former player, Nicky Beaty will take on Team Manager duties. Steve Beaty remains as Assistant Coach.

One of the senior players in the team, Gilroy will continue to be available for selection but will now lead the team.

A heavily experienced coach despite being only 30 years old, Gilroy is well recognised around Northumberland coaching for Cramlington Rockets’ community department and was nominated for Coach of the Year at the Alnwick Sport Awards earlier this year.

Gilroy has also been recognised for his contribution to North East Schools Rugby League and in his last Head Coach position led the club’s U16s to the treble in 2016.

With Robinson having to step away due to work commitments, Rockets Chairman, Jeff Ball was grateful for his efforts:

“Jordan has been a big help this year and remains an integral part of the club. As well as being GM at Newcastle Thunder, he does a huge amount with the Thunder Academy and is still leading our U16s Black side in the Yorkshire league on Sundays, a huge adventure for the club, so we will still be around behind the scenes.”

The appointment is the latest step up for Gilroy, one Ball is pleased to see: “Gilroy remains one of the most effective coaches we have ever had. Countless children have followed him into rugby league and now several of those are part of the first Team, so there is a strong connection there that will be a positive to the side.”

Assistant Coach Steve Beaty is another of the original Rockets who was with the club when it was founded in 2000 and will no doubt help to instil the Rockets values in the team.

The Rockets currently sit 5th in the table after two matches following a second half fightback to beat Gateshead Storm and a gutsy display against reigning champions, Wallsend Eagles at the recent North East Magic Weekend event.

Having lost to Wallsend in last year’s Grand Final, the club is keen for the 1st Team to make a push into the Top 4 and go one better.

The Rockets are recruiting players at all ages. For more information contact the club via social media or email info@cramlingtonrockets.co.uk.