london broncos are in a state of shock following the announcement that their head coach, mike eccles, has decided to step down from his role effective immediately. the decision comes just weeks after the club celebrated a triumphant return to the super league, leaving fans, players, and staff stunned by the sudden departure.
eccles, who took over the reins in 2022, was instrumental in leading the broncos back to the top tier of english rugby league. his leadership and tactical acumen saw the team defy expectations in the championship, culminating in a memorable promotion campaign. however, eccles cited personal reasons and the need to prioritize his well-being as the primary factors behind his decision.
in a heartfelt statement released by the club, eccles expressed gratitude for his time with the broncos. “coaching this team has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” he said. “the decision to step down was incredibly difficult, but after much reflection, i believe it’s the right choice for me and my family. i want to thank the players, staff, and supporters for their unwavering belief in what we’ve built together.”
the announcement has left a void in the club’s preparations for their return to the super league. with pre-season training already underway, the broncos now face the challenge of finding a new head coach capable of maintaining the momentum and ensuring a strong start to the upcoming campaign.
club chairman david hughes acknowledged the impact of eccles’ departure, stating, “mike has been a phenomenal leader and a driving force behind our success. while we are deeply saddened by his decision, we respect his reasons and wish him all the best for the future. our focus now shifts to identifying the right person to build on the foundation he has laid.”
players have also reacted to the news with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. team captain will lovell described eccles as “a coach who truly believed in us and brought out the best in everyone.” he added, “we’re all gutted to see him go, but we understand and support his decision. we’ll carry forward the values and vision he instilled in us.”
the search for a new head coach is expected to be swift but thorough, with several names already being linked to the role. among the rumored candidates are experienced super league coaches as well as rising stars from the championship.
meanwhile, fans have taken to social media to express their reactions, with many praising eccles for his contributions and lamenting the timing of his departure. “he brought us back to the super league and gave us hope,” one supporter wrote. “he’ll always be a legend in our eyes.”
as the broncos navigate this unexpected transition, the focus will remain on ensuring the team is ready to compete at the highest level. while eccles’ departure marks the end of an era, it also opens a new chapter for the club as they embark on their super league journey.
