The final technical activity of the EU-backed Leadership Devolution Project took place in Athens, with 13 local coaches receiving their Level 1 qualification from RLEF coaching manager Martin Crick.

He also delivered educator-training to three Greek trainees, Tasos Pantazidis, Matt Ashill and Nikos Kostakis.“It was a great course,” said Pantazidis, who helped establish rugby league in the country in 2013. “Three members of the Hellenic Federation of Rugby League had the chance to organise a seminar for people who are involved in the sport in Greece. There were more than 40 applications which is very encouraging.

“There is big interest from clubs in the countryside. Having tutors will give us the opportunity to organise seminars there and develop the sport nationwide.”

Mattew Ashill, the Greek national team coach, added, “The students responded very well and soaked up the information. We had the chance to hone our delivery skills to new players, using new techniques and methods."

“I was impressed with the enthusiasm and engagement of the candidates,” said Crick, who, with the Athens activity, completed a marathon 17-country tour delivering educator training. “In spite of the heat they maintained concentration and endeavour throughout the morning sessions, and their involvement in discussion and debate in the afternoons was admirable.

“There was a range of experience and ability; some were new to the game, others had some playing experience, two had some previous coaching experience in rugby league and at least one in rugby union. They all planned well and there were some innovative ideas.”