Classy comments.
Hull FC interim head coach Andy Last.
Andy Last has paid tribute to Hull FC assistant coach Simon Grix ahead of his exit from the club.
Grix will link up with Super League club Castleford Tigers next season, with owner Martin Jepson confirming the appointment at a recent fans forum.
The Halifax-born coach has supported Last in his interim role this year – a role Grix had himself back in 2024 and in similarly tough circumstances amid a squad rebuild.
“Grixy did it tough when he first came here,” Last said. “He had to step into a position when Tony (Smith) left and it was a tough old year. He probably doesn’t get enough credit for how tough that was.
“He’s been a real good assistant for me. He’s a sound bloke and he’s got a real eye for the game. He’s very knowledgeable, and he’s shown a great level of professionalism to support me in a tough old year this season.
“There are numerous members of staff who are not going to be here next year and they’ve done a great job for us. I just want to thank them.”
Last also commended the careers of the likes of Brad Fash and Ligi Sao – two of Hull’s longest-serving players – who were two of ten confirmed end-of-season releases on Friday afternoon.
“I’ve known Brad since he was born,” Last said. “He’s a family friend. He’s been a great servant for Hull FC, and having a testimonial year says a great deal about his durability and how important he has been for our club.
“I’m just really sad that he hasn’t been able to go out on his own terms. He suffered that nasty injury at Bradford and then he suffered some infections. It’s been a real shame.
“I’m sure he would have looked to have had one more game in the black and white but whoever picks up Brad next season will get a player who is very tenacious and strong.“
And on Sao, Last continued: “Ligi has been a great servant. Radders signed him along with Chris Satae and they became the Bash Brothers off the bench.
“He’s really embraced Hull, Ligi. His young family have grown up here; they play in sports teams here, and the girls go to school here. He’s built a life for himself in Hull and he’s played the way Hull supporters love Hull players to play and that’s wholehearted with loads of aggression and intent.
“He walks that tightrope, and sometimes he concedes a couple of penalties on the back of it but that is what Ligi has brought to us; he’s been an enforcer and he’s still got a bit of that steel about him. He’ll be a good pickup for somebody.”