Former rugby league star Glenn Morrison has agreed to the role of Director of Rugby with the Cleveland Rugby League Club until the end of 2022.

Morrison played with a number of NRL clubs before moving to the English Super League.

It is believed the negotiations have been progressing for a number of months.

Cleveland is one of 14 teams competing in the recently announced North American Rugby League professional competition due to commence in less than 2 months.

It is understood Morrison will remain living in Leeds in the north of England while undertaking the role but will travel to Cleveland for key activities.

Morrison has enjoyed a connection with Cleveland Head Coach Monte Gaddis since 2017 when Gaddis played with Shawcross Sharks and trained with the Dewsbury Rams where Morrison was Head Coach.

Morrison’s network and in-depth knowledge of the game will be put to good use immediately as Cleveland ramps up to enter the NARL competition.

“There are a few priorities starting out. Obviously, recruitment is key. I will be in contact with players and player agents to make sure we get the right players into the club,” Morrison said.

“I will also be working closely with Monte and the board to develop their understanding of the fine points of the game and coaching set up. We need to make sure we have everyone both on and off the pitch singing off the same page from day one.

“I am really excited and cannot wait to get started.”

Cleveland Head Coach Gaddis is delighted to have snared the high profile member of the rugby league community.

“Glenn will be a key asset for us to have a successful season, to help expose the brand of Cleveland Rugby League and also gain interest from more supporters and players from UK and Australia. With me being the head coach, both parties have agreed that this will be the best fit for the future of the club, Gaddis told Everything Rugby League.

“A few essential tasks for Morrison will be to provide support to players and myself, analyze training and practice film while also reporting in person to the wonderful city of Cleveland, Ohio for important times,”

Morrison played in the ARL/NRL competitions between 1996 and 2006 playing for Balmain, North Sydney, North Queensland and Parramatta before moving to England and turning out for Bradford and Wakefield Trinity in the Super League between 2007 -11.

After he retired as a player he took up a coaching role at Dewsbury Rams before moving to Bradford Grammar as Head of Athletics. Morrison also coached the Jamaica National Rugby League team.

The strong running lock/backrower played over 300 games at the top level.