The Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL) season is far from over in 2021, but two clubs are already on the hunt for new mentors next year.
The Lakes United Seagulls have already bid Robbie Payne farewell while Kurri Kurri captain-coach Mitch Cullen recently informed the Bulldogs he would be unable to fulfill the dual role in 2022 due to family commitments.
Unfortunately, both organisations sit near the bottom on the ladder, with the Seagulls ninth on six points, one position below the eighth-placed Bulldogs.
Lakes United hit the marketplace earlier this month, seeking expressions of interest in the job.
“We’re looking for suitably experienced and qualified people for the first grade head coaching role,” Seagulls president Craig Kimmorley said.
“He’ll be responsible for all aspects of our football program, including the planning, preparation and coaching of the senior squad.
“On top of that, he will be required to mentor and evaluate individual player and team performance; take part in technical improvement; nurture the strong club culture; and play a pivotal role in the future development of the Seagulls.
“He’ll have a strong hand in the recruitment and retention of players, too.”
Lakes United boasts a healthy relationship with the Newcastle Knights, with a number of the NRL outfit’s juniors linking up with the Real NRL club in 2021.
Four youngsters – Cohan Geelan, Sam Smith, Ryan Potts and Sione Tuitupou-Kutu – also gained selection in the Newcastle Rebels under-20 representative side, which means the future of the Seagulls is in good hands.
Kurri Kurri, meanwhile, has opened applications for coaches for the firsts, reserves and under-19s.
Interested parties have until Friday 9 July to submit a CV to the Bulldogs committee.
Kurri Kurri is still in the hunt for a top five berth but needs to string a few wins together, starting with the Western Suburbs Rosellas at Harker Oval on Saturday 3 July.
Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League
Round 13 draw:
Saturday 3 July –
3pm: Western Suburbs Rosellas v Kurri Kurri Bulldogs (Harker Oval)
Sunday 4 July –
3pm: South Newcastle Lions v Maitland Pickers (Townson Oval)
- The remaining fixtures have been deemed COVID draws
