Long-serving and popular Wales RL senior side team manager Bob Wilson has stepped down from his position to spend more time with his family.
The Chirk-born proud Welshman and retired police superintendent has been in the role during a World Cup qualifying campaign, two European Championships and two World Cups, working under two Wales head coaches in Iestyn Harris and John Kear.
During this time Wales also went six games unbeaten under Kear, the second best run in WRL history, which resulted in Wales winning the European Cup and qualifying for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
Wilson, a former director and team manager of North Wales Crusaders RLFC, can now be seen on matchdays and throughout North Wales selling traditional ice cream in vintage uniform after setting up a new business “The Ice Cream Chain”.
He said: “All good things come to an end and now is the right time for me to step aside. It has been a huge privilege to hold the team manager position for the last six years. In that time I’ve experienced and enjoyed some unforgettable life experiences.
“I would like to thank the players and the staff for their support and friendship and of course my gratitude for affording me such a rare opportunity goes to Wales Rugby League chairman Brian Juliff and CEO Chris Thair. Dal i Gredu, keep believing.”
Former Wales captain Craig Kopczak, who retired from international rugby league earlier this year, said: “It was a pleasure to work with Bob over the last four years, which included two World Cup tournaments.
“Bob is a magical man who was great to be around, and someone who the players had a lot of time for. I know that he’ll be missed around camp but I’m sure we’ll be seeing him cheering Wales on from the stands.”
WRL CEO Chris Thair said: “Bob Wilson has been the epitome of all that is good about the people involved in the sport and we have been much the better due to his involvement.
“A lot of hard work goes into the setting up and delivering the annual international programme and Bob played an integral part in this. Ever popular amongst the players, coaches and staff, he will be missed. Bob leaves on good terms and he has our upmost thanks, gratitude and best wishes for the future.”
Wales Rugby League will soon advertise for a new team manager.