JOEL Tomkins’ rumoured departure from Catalans Dragons is now official.
The former dual code England international has been missing from the last three games for personal reasons and the club on Tuesday issued a statement.
In it, Tomkins said he had decided that after spending time at home in England for those undisclosed personal reasons, it would be best to permanently leave his post.
“The last 18 months at the club have brought me many highlights, as well as some challenges, all of which I have sincerely enjoyed as a young coach,” Tomkins was quoted as saying.
“I have learned a great deal both personally and professionally and I am grateful for the connections and experiences gained along the way. I’m leaving the club a better coach than when I arrived.
“However, living away from my family for such a long time has been difficult. After recently spending some time at home for personal reasons, I have made the decision to end my contract with the club.
“I would like to thank Bernard (Guasch, chairman) and (Sébastien Munoz, CEO) for their understanding and support in this decision.
“I am very grateful to the players, the staff and the fans, and I wish the club many successes for the rest of the season and for the future.”
The club said assistant coaches Ryan Sheridan, Mitchell Pearce and Michael McIlorum would remain in charge for the time being.
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