Wakefield Trinity have been strengthening plenty in recent years and they’ve landed another huge coup by announcing that two Leeds Rhinos coaches have joined on at Belle Vue.

John Bastian and Simon Bell, two highly-respected figures, have left Leeds Rhinos and signed to work with Wakefield Trinity as Daryl Powell’s side look to develop their youth department.

Bastian and Bell have been responsible for overseeing an impressive operation at Leeds Rhinos with Bastian in particular noted as one of the very best at helping to develop players.

He has signed as Wakefield’s new Head of Youth, whilst Bell has taken on the role of Head of Talent, Recruitment and Operations, a role that will see him work in and around the region with community clubs and schools to identify and then support players.

Trinity, who finished sixth in their first season back in Super League, have a number of young players on their books who have impressed but the amount of talent that Wakefield can produce will surely only increase given these additions.

Leeds Rhinos pair make switch to Wakefield Trinity

Bell and Bastian’s arrivals were announced by Wakefield via their social channels and with a statement that confirmed the pair’s roles: “Wakefield Trinity are thrilled to announce two exciting new additions to our Youth department, with John Bastian joining as Head of Youth and Simon Bell taking on the role of Head of Talent, Recruitment & Operations.”

Trinity claimed that it was “another big step forwards in strengthening our player pathway and building for the future” with the credentials of both men noted with Bastian’s long list of clubs noted, as well as Bell’s 20 year stint with Leeds Rhinos.

Speaking on his new role, Bastian said: “I want to say a big thank you to Wakefield Trinity for giving us this opportunity. When we got the option to come I didn’t hesitate in accepting the role. Our goal is to make a huge difference here at the club when it comes to Youth Development.”

After thanking the Ellis family, Bell added: “It’s exciting to be a part of this club with what is currently going on at the club with everything building. I know myself and John are looking forward to getting started and are going to work our damnedest to make sure Wakefield Trinity have a bright future with Youth players coming through into the First Team.”

Director of Rugby Ste Mills had his say, labelling the pair as the ‘best in the business at youth identification and development’.

Mills said: “We’re building something long-term here at Wakefield Trinity and investing in Youth Development is a big part of that. Having John and Simon in the club now give these young talented players the best support and opportunity to succeed.”

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