Former Huddersfield Giants Head Coach Ian Watson Joins Seattle Seawolves as Assistant Coach
In a surprising move, Ian Watson has landed his first coaching role since departing Huddersfield Giants, taking on the position of assistant coach with the American rugby union outfit Seattle Seawolves.
Watson, who spent three-and-a-half years leading the Giants, left his post at the John Smith’s Stadium back in July during a challenging campaign that saw Huddersfield finish 9th in the Super League. The 48-year-old has also previously held coaching roles with Swinton Lions and Salford Red Devils, guiding the latter to the Super League Grand Final in 2019.
Now, Watson’s next venture has been confirmed, as the Seawolves announced his arrival on Thursday. Headed by Irishman Allen Clarke, the Washington-based MLR team were formed in 2017 and finished second in the Western Conference in 2024 before falling short in the Championship Final against the New England Free Jacks.
“Moving from rugby league to rugby union is a very interesting and significant challenge, but after speaking to Allen about the club, staff, players and the MLR, I felt it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss.”
Clarke, the Seawolves’ 57-year-old head coach who was capped by Ireland during his playing days, shared his excitement about welcoming Watson to the team, noting, “It’s clear from working with him this week in the UK that he’s a quality coach, and I’m excited for the impact he’ll have with the team.”
The Seawolves’ 2025 campaign is set to commence towards the end of February, with Watson joining the club ahead of the upcoming season.
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