Coaching role at Robins too good an opportunity for ex-Rhino to refuse

Even the best have to start again.

- by James O'Brien

Luke Gale, once the organiser-in-chief on the field, is now learning the ropes as a coach.In a world where past achievements carry weight but no guarantees, the former England halfback has long appreciated the art of building strong relationships.

Gale kicked off his coaching career at Wakefield Trinity this year before an unexpected opportunity with treble-winning Hull KR came his way - all thanks to the bond he had built with Willie Peters.

"We've been in contact over the years and it came about that way," said the 37-year-old. "He talked about the role, asked me if I was keen and I jumped at the opportunity.

"For a young coach who has only been doing it a year, it's such a good opportunity. It's funny because you've been playing the game for so long but coaching is completely different and you need to start again.

"The last few weeks have been super intense. I've already learnt so much. Willie has helped me loads, as have Watto [Ian Watson] and Hodge [David Hodgson].

"It does give me confidence that Willie thought about me for this role. The one thing about Willie is that he's so open to new ideas. That's refreshing for a head coach."

By bringing in Gale and Watson to replace Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Danny Ward in a new-look coaching team, Peters has turned what could have been an untimely turnover into a chance to inject fresh perspective.