‘We need to make sure that he is still involved somewhere’: Paul March wants record-breaker Paul Sykes to remain at Dewsbury Rams
He may have just hung up his boots after playing in a record-breaking 28 seasons, but Paul Sykes is still wanted by hometown club Dewsbury Rams.
That is the view of head coach Paul March who wants the legendary 45-year-old to stay at FLAIR Stadium as part of his backroom staff or in an ambassador role.
Sykes has spent the last 11 seasons of a flourishing career with the Rams having also played in Super League for Bradford Bulls, London Broncos and Wakefield Trinity, as well as representing Great Britain - making over 550 appearances in the process since his Odsal debut as a teenager.
March told the Reporter Series: “I have grown up with Sykesy up at Thornhill. I used to watch him when I came home from training as he used to be in the park kicking goals.
“He was all about rugby league and he was always going to be destined for good stuff, but for a player to play for 28 seasons is unreal. He has earned his rest. I think it is the right time. He can now concentrate on other stuff now rather than training and playing.
“But we need to make sure that he is still involved somewhere in the club, whether it is a coaching role or ambassador role.”
Will rugby league ever see another Paul Sykes in terms of longevity?
“I can’t see it, no,” answered March. “He has done well to look after himself physically and I can’t see anybody beating that.”
The head coach also confirmed that his squad are now off until the first week in November.