Leigh Leopards are delighted to confirm the appointment of Tom Simms to the role of head coach of the Leigh Leopards Wheelchair team with immediate effect, as the team prepares to commence its first full league campaign as part of the 3rd tier RFL Northern Conference.

He succeeds Damian McCabe as head coach, who has stepped away from the role for personal reasons. “Damo” was instrumental in the formation of the team, leading from its very first session in November 2023, after a decorated playing career in the game which included international honours with Ireland, earning 15 appearances.

Damo said: “I thank every one of the players for the commitment and respect they have shown. Coaching them has been an absolute pleasure, and I wish them all the very best for the coming season and many years to come”.

Tom Simms, who earned heritage number 1 as the inaugural captain of the team, will continue to play alongside his new coaching duties.

Tom said: “I’d firstly like to extend a huge thanks to Damo.”

“In his first interview with the club back in 2024, he said his main goal was not just to teach players how to play, but to make them love the sport so much that they want to keep coming back, and the group of passionate players he has left behind is testament to his success in that regard.”

“Moving forward, we are looking to be highly competitive in our first league fixtures of the season, building on the foundations Damo laid.”

“We want to replicate the style and ethos of the first team, with an exciting brand of rugby whilst being connected and hard to break down in defence.”

“We are of course always on the lookout for new players, whether it’s someone transitioning from the running game or new to Rugby League altogether, and will be hosting an open training session soon to give everyone the opportunity to give Wheelchair rugby league a go. It truly is the most inclusive game around.”