Keen to make a mark in the European rugby league community, the Belgian officials have taken a big leap towards achieving that, appointing former Junior Kiwi Tony Benson as their new Rugby League Sports Director.
With Benson to officially commence in the role in 2015, his main priorities will be to formulate a youth culture among Belgium’s rugby league system.
In addition to that, he will also work towards the setup of an elite rugby league program that will allow Belgium to field a side in the 2016 Eurocup C competition.
The Belgium rugby league themselves are thrilled to have the experienced Benson on board and believe he is a solid fit for their budding aspirations.
“His knowledge and proven ability to bring the very best out of players makes him an ideal fit for Belgian Rugby League,” said Belgian’s league Chairman, Yves Kazadi.
As for Benson’s previous roles in rugby league, he was the Junior Kiwi coach in 2003 before moving onto Leigh Centurions in the 2006 season.
Following that, he then became a part of the Ireland Wolfhounds back-room staff and then moved onto a head caoching role with the London Skolars.
That was followed by two years at Oldham with successive grand final appearances, before his final role – before this one – saw him coach Oxford Rugby League.