WHITEHAVEN today ended speculation over who will be in charge at the Recre next season by handing current boss Ged Stokes a new two-year deal.
Ged Stokes with chairman Gordon Grace
The contract, due to be signed this morning, ties the Kiwi to the NL1 outfit until the end of 2010.
Mike Graham, Haven's marketing director, today praised the ex-Workington Town boss for transforming the team's fortunes - and answering the critics who questioned his initial appointment in late March.
"On his arrival at Whitehaven, Ged inherited a very difficult situation," Graham said.
"On field performances were poor and the club were at the foot of National League One. As a board we were patently aware that Ged's previous connections with Workington Town would cause some concerns amongst fans.
"Even some media were rather negative in our appointment. It was a tough task that Ged took on. Ged Stokes has shown his abilities as a first-class coach that Whitehaven Rugby Club are proud to have on board.
"Some of our performances this season have been scintillating with some very enjoyable and crowd-pleasing games. There is a buzz of excitement at the club now and we look forward to the future."
Stokes was placed in charge until the end of the current campaign after coach Paul Crarey stepped down on medical grounds.
And he made it clear from the outset that his aim was to earn a longer term deal.
Haven made a disastrous start to the league season, losing their opener at promoted Featherstone and then going down at home to unfancied Batley.
But Stokes steadied the ship on taking charge, despite being without two of the club's top performers, Richard Fletcher and John Duffy, who were allowed to join rivals Widnes due to crippling cash concerns, which have since eased.
And Haven now lie sixth in NL1, with a fighting chance of securing a play-off place.
Chairman Gordon Grace said: "We are delighted to have retained the services of Ged for the next two years.
"There are a lot of exciting developments going on both on and off the field and it is crucial that we have a period of stability to sustain that development.
"As a board we look forward to working with Ged, our staff, the players and fans to make Whitehaven Rugby League Club as successful as we can, with first class facilities and a winning side
