Rugby league coach at Shevington Sharks claims RFL award

Craig Fisher receives his award at Old Trafford

And it resulted in him being named Coach of the Year at the RFL Community Awards in a glittering ceremony at Old Trafford.

“It was a real surprise to hear I’d won,” acknowledged Craig.

“There’s so many top coaches around and to get the award was a massive shock. I was nominated last year and came second, and to go one better is amazing.”

Craig has coached his side since they formed as Under-9s, and it hasn’t always been plain sailing.

“It looked like we were going to fold at first, we had a two-year losing streak to begin with,” he revealed.

“But everyone worked so hard, we turned it around, and now we’re in a Cup semi-final, and one win away from winning their Championship.

“A few of the lads are even attracting interest from professional clubs, which shows the level they are playing at.

“But even if they don’t want to go that way, they’re enjoying their rugby and making friends, which is just as important.”