Gareth Ellis has come back to Hull FC ‘energised and refreshed.’ That’s the view of interim head coach Simon Grix, who is pleased to see Ellis back working in the performance department for the rest of the current season and helping out in any way he can.
For Grix, that is only a benefit to the Black and Whites, with Ellis, a club legend after an outstanding playing career, signing on a three-year deal. He will go into an unspecified new role next season, but for now, it’s anything and everything, offering support to both Grix and Francis Cummins, who have started to get a tune out of the Hull side after stepping up to lead the side after the departure of Tony Smith last month.
Grix clarified, “Gaz appears revitalised and energised. He wasn’t sure if coaching would be his path before he left, but occasionally a change of scenery is as refreshing as a vacation, and he returns rejuvenated. All he’s doing is adding in each manner he can till the path becomes more narrow and leads to what comes next.
Although Gaz had other aspects to his game, that was the cornerstone. I know he has watched the games and commented about seeing a slight improvement in the players’ effort level. He was really strong in certain areas of the game, and he’s happy to see those portions come through in our last performances. It should be everyone’s.
“The club’s legend is Gaz. Both as a player and a person, he is excellent. Gaz is a legend who is closely associated with Hull FC, thus Richie (Myler) is trying to figure out how he can improve this team. This can’t be a bad thing. He’s currently lending a hand wherever he is.
Grix recognises his existing hand in the interim. The 38-year-old will continue to lead for the remainder of the season and is being considered for the permanent position of head coach. Richie Myler, the director of rugby, is presently reviewing the club’s options and taking stock.
Nevertheless, Grix thinks that improving Hull would take time and that the chosen individual will require some time to leave their mark, even if they are hired.
“We have seen a bit of improvement, but it’s early days on that front as well,” Grix stated. “Anyone entering the situation, including myself, would require a considerable period of time to implement any kind of change or philosophy. It’s not a quick burner, no matter what
“I’ve already stated that the club’s current state is not the responsibility of any one person, but there are many wonderful people and good things happening in the background. I simply need to keep doing what I’m doing and give these guys the greatest preparation possible so they can strive to improve every week.”
