Joel Tomkins Leaves Catalans Dragons Due to Personal Circumstances

Joel Tomkins has announced his decision to leave his role as head coach at Catalans Dragons, citing personal reasons for his departure. Having held the position for nearly a year, Tomkins found the time spent away from his family to be a significant challenge. Following a recent period back home, he made the decision to step down after just seven games into the Super League season, with the team currently sitting sixth in the table. Initially, Tomkins took on the role as an interim coach after Steve McNamara's departure but was soon appointed as the permanent head coach at the club where he spent the latter part of his playing career. Tomkins reflected on his time at Catalans Dragons, stating that his experience had been valuable, both personally and professionally, and he appreciated the friendships and experiences gained. However, the prolonged separation from his family proved difficult, leading to his decision to leave the club. Tomkins expressed his gratitude to the players, staff, and supporters, wishing the club success for the remainder of the season and beyond. His absence from the club's last three fixtures had sparked speculation about his future, and Ryan Sheridan, along with assistant coaches Micky McIlorum and Mitchell Pearce, will now take over as interim head coach, starting with their next game against the Warrington Wolves on April 18.