Ian Blease Archives - Salford Red Devils

KING VUNIYAYAWA SIGNS NEW TWO-YEAR SALFORD RED DEVILS CONTRACT

Posted on 4 September 20234 September 2023 by Harry Siddall

We are delighted to announce King Vuniyayawa has signed a new two-year deal at Salford Red Devils.

The 28-year-old Fijian joins Shane Wright as the second forward to commit their long-term future to the club, penning terms until the end of 2025.

King joined the club from Leeds Rhinos in 2022 and has been an ever-present in Paul Rowley’s forward pack.

Before moving to England, the 28-year-old also made five appearances for NRL side, New Zealand Warriors and has represented Fiji at the recent Rugby League World Cup.

Twenty two appearances and two tries later, the metre-eater has signed a new deal and will want to play a major role in any success going forward.

In reaction to extending his stay, Vuniyayawa has said: “I am really excited to extend my stay here at Salford and looking forward to what we can build at this club in the future!”

Head Coach, Paul Rowley, has added: “It is great to retain the services of King and we look forward to helping him reach his potential in Salford colours.

“Retaining players like King is a good start to us building a competitive squad for next year and beyond!”

Director of Rugby and Operations, Ian Blease has also said: “It is great news we have been able to extend King’s contract until 2025.

“Ever since his debut, we have seen him develop immensely under the current coaching staff and I know he is well-respected by his teammates, and all the staff.

“I look forward to seeing the next step in his journey and I am delighted that will be in a Red Devils shirt!”

Everyone at Salford Red Devils would like to congratulate King on his new deal!

SHANE WRIGHT SIGNS NEW THREE-YEAR SALFORD RED DEVILS CONTRACT

Posted on 4 August 20234 August 2023 by Harry Siddall

We are delighted to announce Shane Wright has penned a new three-year deal at Salford Red Devils, keeping him at the Club until 2026.

Wright joined the club from North Queensland Cowboys after making 41 NRL appearances and penned a two-year deal at the Salford Stadium.

Since then, the Aussie has made 24 appearances, scored six tries and become a vital part of Paul Rowley’s back row.

Unfortunately, Wright was caught on the wrong side of a tackle against St Helens and is likely to miss the remainder of 2023 with an ankle injury.

Before that, the 27-year-old was in flying form and picked-up the club’s April Player of the Month award, as voted by the supporters.

In reaction to extending his stay with the Red Devils, Wright said: “I am pumped to extend my time here at Salford.

“We have a good group at the moment and the club is heading in the right direction, which I am excited to continue being a part of!”

Head Coach, Paul Rowley has added: “It is great news to keep Shane within the group. He is a young player with lots of potential, and all the drive and determination to reach it.

“He is a fantastic lad and really popular amongst the group. We are all delighted we get the pleasure of working alongside Shane going forward.”

Director of Rugby and Operations, Ian Blease also said: “It is a massive coup for the club to retain Shane’s services for the next three years.

“He is the ultimate professional, conducts himself with utter class and will no doubt play a major role in any future success this team has.

“His excellent form in 2023 was cut so cruelly short, but I know when he returns, it will be a massive boost for his teammates and the coaching staff!”

Everyone at Salford Red Devils would like to congratulate Shane on his new deal!

CHRIS ATKIN PENS NEW TWO-YEAR SALFORD RED DEVILS CONTRACT

Posted on 23 May 202323 May 2023 by Harry Siddall

Salford Red Devils are delighted to reveal Chris Atkin has signed a new two-year contract, keeping him at the Club until 2025.

After securing the future of multiple key players in pre-season, tying down our number 14 is another crucial step towards achieving our goals.

Atkin signed for the Red Devils in 2020 and has since become a pivotal figure for the side in all competitions. His versatility during an injury-hit campaign has been vital and Head Coach, Paul Rowley has often highlighted the 30-year-old’s selflessness.

He has made 64 appearances in Red and White, scoring 12 tries and contributing heavily in all areas of the field.

Keeping a player of Atkin’s calibre at the club for the long-term is a huge boost for the side and he will undoubtedly play a big role in the team going forward.

Reacting to his new deal, Atkin has said: “Buzzing to have signed on for another two years. I am really excited to be a part of this club and to see how far we can go!”

Head Coach, Paul Rowley has added: “It is really positive news that the club continues to show growth and progression with the extended contract to Chris.

“He is an absolute pleasure to work with and such a valuable asset to our club.

“His contribution during my time here as been fantastic and I speak on behalf of the staff, and the team in saying we are all delighted that’s he’s chosen to continue his journey with Salford!”

Director of Rugby and Operations, Ian Blease has also said: “As we continue to strengthen our 2024 squad and beyond, securing Chris’ signature for another two years is really pleasing.

“Chris has been outstanding for us since he came onboard in 2020. He has listened to his coaches, worked really hard on his game and his skill set – coupled with his field positional options – has become a real bonus for us.

“His loyalty, dedication to our cause and the way he just gets on with his job is a credit to himself and his family – he is an absolute pleasure to be around and work with!”

Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Chris on his new deal!

SALFORD RED DEVILS FORM UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP WITH LOUGHBOROUGH COLLEGE

Posted on 26 April 202325 April 2023 by Harry Siddall

Salford Red Devils have formed a unique partnership with Loughborough College and the RFL, meeting the needs of our academy talent.

The Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) is a two-year, Sport England-funded programme. It is a unique sporting qualification designed to meet the needs of student-athletes who exhibit the potential to achieve excellence in their sport.

The programme’s primary focus is to enable performers to combine sport and education to have the qualifications, skills, knowledge and behaviours to pursue a dual career, with the ultimate aim of progressing in the Salford Red Devils talent pathway.

The Red Devils players have been recruited to join the DiSE programme, which the National Governing Body, RFL, oversees.

Martin Webdale, Elite Sport Manager at Loughborough College, commented: “It is great to have Salford Red Devils on board and delivering the DiSE qualification to their players.

“The course will enable the players to improve their skills on and off the pitch and set them up for a duel career in the future.”

Ian Blease, Director of Rugby and Operations, has also said: “Again, this is another example of the club’s ongoing progression in our strategy and developing our youth player pathways.

“This new partnership with Loughborough in support of our Red Devils Elite Development (REDs) player pathway will provide another platform of opportunities for Chris Irwin & his coaching staff and a talented group of players.

“Thank you to the Loughborough staff for working with us on this project, and long may it continue to be a platform for future Red Devils stars in the making!”

Chris Irwin, Head of REDs, has added: “We are delighted to partner with Loughborough College to provide our players with the opportunity to gain a DiSE qualification.

“This program will not only help our young athletes to develop their rugby skills, but it will also equip them with essential life skills and knowledge that will benefit them on and off the pitch.”

He continued: “The Salford Red Devils elite pathway is committed to nurturing talented players, but also developing them as people, and the DiSE program is a crucial part of that mission.

“I look forward to seeing our players grow and thrive through this partnership!”

ANDY ACKERS SIGNS NEW FOUR-YEAR SALFORD RED DEVILS CONTRACT

Posted on 15 February 202315 February 2023 by Harry Siddall

Salford Red Devils are delighted to announce Andy Ackers has signed a new four-year contract at the Club, keeping him in Red and White until 2026.

Despite the whole team making significant progress across last season, the 29-year-old was by far a stand-out performer for Paul Rowley’s side.

Ackers follows his teammates in the spine, Brodie Croft and Ryan Brierley by committing his long-term future to the Red Devils. Their relationship – alongside Marc Sneyd at scrum-half – was a key part of our run to the Betfred Super League semi-final in 2022.

Rowley – as a former hooker himself – has worked closely with our number nine and will undoubtably have had a massive impact on his performances. Notably, Ackers’ deception and maturity has shone through – showcasing his fully skillset at club and international level.

Reacting to his contract extension, Ackers has said: “I am made up to have my future sorted with Salford. The decision was a no brainier; I love the lads and the staff here – it feels like home!”

“I am looking forward to getting stuck in to the games now and working hard in the new season. I want to thank the players, the staff and my management team for getting this sorted.”

Head Coach, Paul Rowley has also added: “I worked with Andy for several years now and have watched him mature into a fantastic player.

“He’s worked tremendously hard with drive and determination to achieve his goals whilst having a selfless team-first mentality.

“Andy is a great player and a fantastic team mate. The environment is 100% a better place with Andy in it!”

Ian Blease, Salford’s Director of Rugby and Operations, has also said: “I am now so pleased we have managed to extend Andy’s contract for a further three years.

“Off the back off Brodie’s signature last week, I stated we are committed to keep our quality players at the club and again Andy’s signature epitomises our commitments.

“Andy has developed immensely as a player at our club since we signed him in 2020, and he got his rewards by making his England debut last season.

“Andy’s drive and ambition and his will to win is what we are looking to build our team around, I am delighted he has agreed to stay at the Red Devils.”

Ackers is the latest in a long line of people who have committed their long-term future to the Club. Have you? Buy your 2023 season ticket HERE!

Lafai to remain a Red until end of 2023

Posted on 11 June 20228 February 2023 by Luke Wallworth

Salford Red Devils are delighted to announce that the one-year option in Tim Lafai’s contract has been taken up, meaning the centre will remain a Red until at least the end of 2023.

Arriving at the Club in January as the second signing of head coach Paul Rowley’s reign, Lafai, who is sponsored by has impressed in his first season in the Betfred Super League.

The centre, who has 10 years of NRL experience and has represented Samoa 17 times, including 9s competitions, has been one of Salford’s most consistent players this year.

Paul Rowley commented: “We’re really pleased to have Tim extend his stay at the club. Myself, the staff and all the players really appreciate Tim as both a player and a person.

“He’s a fantastic lad who has really bought into the culture we are growing at the club and I’m sure he will play a big part in the club’s growth and progression moving forward.”

Director of Rugby and Operations, Ian Blease, added: “Bringing Tim to Salford was a signing we all put a lot of thought into. However, given Tim’s previous NRL career, we became certain that Tim would hit the ground running in Super League and would prove to become a success at the club.

“We’re extremely happy that we put our faith in Tim as he’s been a tremendous addition to the group since pulling on the Salford shirt and has been one of our standout players every week. Taking the option up to have him with us for another year was an easy decision and hopefully we can do work on something more long-term with Tim as he carries on to progress at the Red Devils.”

Join Lafai on Sunday 26th June, when Salford host Wakefield Trinity for Round 16 of the Betfred Super League. Tickets available HERE.

Alex Gerrard signs two-year contract extension

Posted on 31 May 20228 February 2023 by Luke Wallworth

Salford Red Devils are delighted to announce that prop Alex Gerrard has signed a two-year contract extension.

Gerrard arrived from Leigh Centurions in January and has gone on to be a quite a regular name on Paul Rowley’s team sheet, featuring eight times in the league and in Salford’s only Betfred Challenge Cup outing of 2022 against Wigan Warriors.

Speaking on his contract extension, Gerrard said: “I’m really pleased to be a part of what we’re building here. The environment at Salford is great, they’re a good group of lads.

“I want to continue to contribute to the team positively and improve on my performances week in, week out.”

Head coach Paul Rowley commented: “Alex has been fantastic on and off the pitch. He’s an experienced and clever player and is well respected and valued by all the coaches and the playing group.

“I’m really pleased that he’s extended and look forward to him contributing positively to the group.”

Director of rugby and operations Ian Blease added: “Alex has been a brilliant addition to the squad since arriving in January and it’s great to see him thriving at Salford.

“He is an important part of our pack and we’re delighted to have him with us for another two years.”

Salford travel to Sewell Group Craven Park on Sunday for Round 14 against Hull KR. Purchase your match tickets HERE.

Kallum Watkins extends Salford stay

Posted on 4 May 20228 February 2023 by Luke Wallworth

Salford Red Devils are pleased to confirm that Kallum Watkins has signed a contract extension until the end of 2023.

The England international signed for Salford, his boyhood club, towards the latter stage of the 2020 season, starting at centre for the Red Devils just over a month later in the Betfred Challenge Cup Final at Wembley.

Our number 3 returned recently to the squad after over 11 months out injured. Watkins has not only hit the ground running, he’s done so playing in the second-row, rather than recognised position of centre, due to the pile up of injuries.

Watkins said: “”I’m really pleased to extend my stay here at Salford. The club are heading in a great direction with the playing group and coaching staff we’ve got here and I’m excited to continue working with everyone.

It’s been a tough last 12 months for me personally, but everyone at the club have supported me and pushed me to get back on the pitch and I’m really happy to be back playing. I want to focus on keeping fit now and doing my best to represent Salford both on and off the field.”

Head coach Paul Rowley commented: “It’s fantastic news that Kallum has committed his future to the club. He’s been fantastic on and off the field and is exactly the calibre of player and more importantly person that we want in our organisation. He’s an international athlete and a role model to all aspiring future Red Devils. I know I speak on behalf of everyone at the club in saying it’s a pleasure and privilege to have Kallum in our group.

Director of rugby and operations, Ian Blease, added: “It’s fantastic for Salford that we’ve got Kallum with us for at least another season. Kallum is the definition of a true professional who leads by example both on and off the field and despite a pretty tough year for him personally with injuries, his experience, talent and knowledge of the game has really strengthened our squad.

It’s great to see Kallum back on the field and his return to the squad has really gave us that shot in the arm we need as we get into the thick of the season.”

Join Watkins on Sunday 15th May for our Round 12 home clash with Leeds Rhinos. Tickets on sale HERE.

Deon Cross to remain a Red Devil until end of 2023

Posted on 3 May 20228 February 2023 by Luke Wallworth

Salford Red Devils are delighted to announce that we have exercised the one-year extension option in Deon Cross’ contract, meaning the in-form centre/winger will remain a Red Devil until the end of the 2023 season.

Cross arrived at Salford from Widnes Vikings ahead of the 2022 season and impressed from his first day of pre-season, leading to head coach Paul Rowley highlighting him as his standout player during the off-season.

A recognised winger, Cross quickly had to adapt his game due to a number of injuries at the club that left a shortage of centres in Rowley’s squad. However, Our number 28 has not once looked out of place in what is his first season in the Betfred Super League, with consistently strong performances every week.

Deon Cross, sponsored by PND Travel, said: “I’m really pleased to get the contract extension at Salford, as I have loved every minute so far at the club. I’m really enjoying my time here, especially with the playing group, coaching staff and the fans we have got.

“The club have given me an opportunity by giving me an extension and I want to repay them with good performances and assisting the team in the goals we have set for the season and beyond.”

Head coach Paul Rowley added: “It’s great news for Salford that Deon has extended his stay with the club. He’s a great example of perseverance, dedication and commitment to following his dreams.

“He’s worked extremely hard and is looking very much a Super League player. He’s a fantastic lad to work with and the lads, the staff and myself are looking forward to being a part of his continued Super League journey.”

Director of rugby and operations, Ian Blease, commented: “From all of the recruitment over the years, Deon’s signing and his progression in such a short space of time, has personally been one of the best signings I have made at the club so far. It is great to see a player being given a chance at elite sport and succeeding and at present, Deon is grasping his chance with both hands.

“I believed in Deon from the onset and after speaking with his agent, I knew he would be a perfect fit for our club. Deon’s willingness to adapt and learn at the Red Devils has been an absolute pleasure to watch.

“We have now taken up the option on Deon for 2023, and this will now give him more time to build on his game and grow his reputation even more for our club.”

Join Deon at the The Salford Stadium on Sunday 15th May, when we see the return of Leeds Rhinos for Round 12 of the Betfred Super League. Tickets on sale HERE.

Cory Paterson appointed player welfare and team manager

Posted on 9 February 20228 February 2023 by Luke Wallworth

Salford Red Devils are delighted to announce the return of former player Cory Paterson, who has taken up the vacant player welfare and team manager role.

Paterson spent the 2015 Betfred Super League season as a player for Salford, with spells at Newcastle Knights, North Queensland Cowboys, Hull KR, Wests Tigers, Leigh Centurions and Toronto Wolfpack as well. The Australian also represented the Indigenous All Stars on three occasions.

Speaking on returning to the Red Devils, Paterson said: “I’m really excited to be returning to the Club, I’ve made some great memories here and met some great people.

“When Rowls (Rowley) said there’s a position open in the player welfare side, I thought that’s right up my alley. Rowls is a very good friend of mine having played under him.”

“I’m really excited to be back in rugby league, I’ve had three years away from it. The main thing I’m looking forward to is being back in the environment with the boys and the coaching staff.

“We’re building a good strong squad here and the Club is moving in the right direction and I just hope I can play a part in any future success.”

Head coach Paul Rowley commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Cory to the Club. As an ex-Salford player, he’s already familiar with the city and its supporters and has played with and against many of our players.

“I’ve coached Cory on two occasions and he’s always shown a passion for player welfare and wellbeing. He’s the perfect fit and knows exactly what a winning culture looks like and needs.”

Director of rugby and operations, Ian Blease, added: “I’m delighted to have Cory returning to Salford as the Player Welfare & Team Manager.

“He is someone who knows the Club well as a former player and I have no doubt that he will only strengthen our back room setup, giving sound and honest advice from his experiences in life, and the game, to all the club’s players & staff.”

Tag: Ian Blease