Widnes director of rugby Neil Kelly is stepping down as Wales coach for personal reasons. Kelly, who succeeded Clive Griffiths after the 2000 World Cup, has told the Rugby Football League he can no longer devote the time to the Welsh job.
"I have three daughters and we've not had the chance of a family holiday for some time," Kelly said.
"It's a decision I didn't want to make but I've made it for my family. I can't juggle everything."
Rugby Football League spokesman John Huxley confirmed that several coaches at "varying levels of the game" were being considered to replace Kelly.
Possible candidates are thought to include former dual-code Wales international wing Anthony Sullivan, currently academy coach at St Helens, and Hull KR head coach Martin Hall.
The Welsh Conference also has several stand-out candidates, with Aberavon Fighting Irish's Chris O'Callaghan and Kevin Ellis of the Bridgend Blue Bulls well-regarded in coaching circles.
 |  I would be more than happy to assist whoever gets the position |
Kelly is out of contract with Tetley's Super League strugglers Widnes at the end of the season and has yet to sign a new deal.
The club are fourth from bottom of the table with just eight points after losing 10 of their 14 league matches so far this season.
But whatever the future holds for Kelly, he still hopes to retain an involvement in the future of Welsh rugby league.
He has played a role in the continued development of the Welsh Conference, which produced Lenny Woodard, Aled James and Damian Hood for the national team last season.
"We were looking to promote other players from the Welsh Conference this year in the hope that eventually 70% of the squad will be first-generation (Welsh) players," said Kelly.
"It could bear some rich fruits in the not-too-distant future and I would love to have a continued involvement in that.
"I would be more than happy to assist whoever gets the position."
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
