Former Wigan Warriors halfback Paul Deacon has left his role as head coach of Sale Sharks after five years in charge following the conclusion of the Premiership Rugby season.
Deacon has been at Sale for ten years, starting as an attack and skills coach on Steve Diamond’s coaching staff in 2015 before taking over as head coach in 2020.
“It’s been a rollercoaster ride over the last 10 years, but I’ve loved every minute,” Deacon added. “I arrived to the club with little knowledge of the game, but I wanted to put my skills to the test.
“The past five years, in especially, have been incredible. To reach four semi-finals in five seasons has been wonderful; my only regret is that we did not win the Premiership, but I am confident it will happen.
“I’ve worked with some outstanding players and brilliant coaches, and I’ll remember my time at Sale warmly and with great pleasure. I’m just sad it has come to an end.
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to Steve Diamond for bringing me to the club, to Simon, Michelle and Ged and to Alex for their friendship and support, and I’d like to thank the players and Sharks supporters for making the last ten years so enjoyable.”
Deacon became a household name during his 14-year rugby league career, winning four Super League titles, two Challenge Cups, and a World Club Challenge title while making over 300 appearances for Bradford Bulls and nearly 50 for his hometown club Wigan.
After retiring, Deacon worked on Wigan’s coaching staff for four years before switching codes and joined Diamond’s team at Sale, where he later became an important member of Alex Sanderson’s staff.
Meanwhile, Sale have appointed former Italy international Marco Bortolami as the club’s new head coach, succeeding Deacon.
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