Fans' favourite Mick Cassidy back at Wigan Warriors

The ex-forward will replace Matty Peet, who will switch to rugby union to work as Sale Sharks’ high performance manager.

Cassidy is currently an assistant coach at Widnes Vikings, where he has been since 2009, and has also been coaching Shevington Sharks at under-16s level.

“I’m totally over the moon to have the chance to return to Wigan Warriors as Head of Youth,” said Cassidy, a level four coach and qualified teacher.

“ As a player, I had so many great times here so I’m delighted to be returning to the club. I’ve been at Widnes for nine years, and I’ve gained a lot of experience during my time there coaching both the first team and academy sides, so I feel this is a great opportunity to progress.

“I know Wigan are fanatical about producing local talent, and helping their amateur clubs thrive. As a young player myself, I came through the Wigan Academy system and I was taught the ‘Wigan Way’. I’m looking forward to contributing and working with the community clubs in our area and I’d like to thank Kris Radlinski and Ian Lenagan for this opportunity. I’m confident I can help build on the strong foundations on what is already a very successful club.”

Cassidy, 45, made 368 appearances for Wigan during a playing career in which he was a fans’ favourite for his reputation for relentless tackling.

Having made his debut against Warrington in April 1992, he played on until 2004, picking up three Challenge Cup winner’s medals, six league titles, two Regal Trophy medals, four Premierships and a World Club Challenge.

Outgoing Head of Youth Matty Peet will be ending a 12-year association with Wigan Warriors at the end of the 2018 season, having played an integral part in the club’s youth system.

A member of the coaching staff since 2006, Peet has overseen the development of all junior players at the club.

During his time with Wigan he has also coached England Academy as assistant coach and has headed up the Reserves, U19s and U18s teams.

On his impending departure, Peet said: “I would like to thank Wigan Warriors, and in particular Shaun Wane and Kris Radlinski, for their support and friendship during my time at the club.

“It’s been a privilege to have been part of such a successful period for the club during my time here, and I’ll leave my role with a huge amount of pride having seen so many of our

youngsters develop into top-level rugby league players and quality young men.

“It’s a decision that took a great deal of consideration, but I feel the development and experiences I have gained during my time here will put me in good stead for my next challenge.

“I’d also like to thank the staff that have worked with me in the Academy including some incredible volunteers who have helped maintain such high standards of professionalism, the

Riversiders for their continued support, and for Darren Fletcher, who provided me with my first opportunity in coaching as part of the youth set-up.”

Executive Director Kris Radlinski said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Mick back to Wigan, but at the same time, we’re sad to be saying farewell to Matty Peet, who has played such an integral role in our youth set-up. Mick will bring a wealth of experience to our organisation, so we believe he’s well placed to build on the fantastic work Matty has done during his time with the club.

“We’d like to wish Matty well in his new challenge. His work here at Wigan speaks for itself and he can look back on his time with us with a huge amount of pride.”