Steve Swanson is set to leave Brighton Bears and take over as head coach of their play-off conquerors.

Swanson, Bears assistant coach, has agreed a one-year deal to take charge of Scottish Rocks.

He replaces Kevin Wall, who retired after last Sunday's play-off final win over the Bears.

Swanson, 33, moved to Brighton at the start of the 20001/02 season after a short spell at Derby Storm and was rated by Bears chief Nick Nurse as the best assistant in the British League.

Nurse gave Swanson a glowing reference when he was being interviewed for the Rocks job.

Other head coaches around the league are also believed to have spoken highly of his abilities.

Swanson said: "I have had a great experience here in Brighton. The fans have been tremendous and a big part of me is sad to be leaving.

"Nick was extremely supportive and I owe him a big thank you for everything he has done for me. He has become a best friend as well as a colleague.

"It's kind of tough to turn in my keys and go but in this profession you need to look into all opportunities."

Swanson has stepped in as head coach at times for most of his teams either side of the Atlantic and has taken charge of sides in summer leagues.

He took the reins for Bears in their win over Milton Keynes recently when Nurse was banned and coached the South Coast team at last year's Hosana Pro-Arm.

In the States, his top achievement was winning national honours with his local college in Burlington, Iowa.

The move also means his wife Sandy leaving her post as Bears marketing director.