Joel Tomkins Leaves Catalans Dragons Due to Personal Circumstances

Joel Tomkins, the former England rugby league and union international, has announced his decision to step down as head coach of Catalans Dragons, citing 'personal reasons' as the primary factor. Having held the position for nearly a year, Tomkins revealed that the prolonged separation from his family had taken a toll. Following a brief period back home, he made the difficult decision to leave the team after just seven games into the Super League season, with the Dragons currently sitting sixth in the standings. Tomkins initially took on the role as an interim coach after Steve McNamara's departure but was later appointed as the permanent head coach, a position he held at the club where he spent the final years of his playing career. In a statement, Tomkins expressed his gratitude for the experience and friendships forged during his tenure, acknowledging the challenges he faced as a rookie head coach. However, he emphasized that the time away from his family had become increasingly difficult. Tomkins will be succeeded by Ryan Sheridan, who will take over as interim head coach alongside assistant coaches Micky McIlorum and Mitchell Pearce, starting with the team's next game against Warrington Wolves on April 18.