Competitive edge lands new assistant at the North Queensland Cowboys
“He’s got some characteristics that we like that we think will be beneficial to the group.”
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THE dawning of a new era has continued for the North Queensland Cowboys, following the appointment of Dean Young.
Currently interim coach of the St George-Illawarra Dragons, Young will head to Townsville for the 2021 season as an assistant to Todd Payten.
His three-year deal will come off the back of a tough initiation to the NRL top job, having won just a single match since assuming the reins from Paul McGregor.
However, the 36-year-old’s commitment to defence could be exactly what the Cowboys need, who have found no trouble scoring points in 2020 but have struggled to keep opposing sides at bay.
Young’s time leading the Dragons under-20s outfit in 2014 could also prove crucial for North Queensland, given the wealth of young yet inexperienced talent at their disposal.
“Along with our incoming head coach Todd Payten, Dean’s appointment gives the club a fresh start and some clean air,” Cowboys director of football Peter Parr said.
“He was an exceptionally good player, a fierce competitor, and in all discussions – which is one area we need to improve in – is around competing for longer periods of the game.
“In all the discussions he’s had with us here at the club, he’s had great clarity he understands what’s required here at the Cowboys and he’s excited about the opportunity to work with Todd.
“Just as importantly, Todd is a believer in Dean’s coaching ability and we’re extremely excited to have two of the best young coaches in the game at our club.
“He’s got some characteristics that we like that we think will be beneficial to the group.”
Parr said no further decisions would be made on the rest of the coaching staff until the season, and Payten’s commitment to the Warriors, was over, before doing a deep dive into what was required to improve on their efforts this year.
While Young has endured his struggles as a head coach thus far, he has dipped his toes in several teams since retiring as a player in 2012.
Along with his role at the Dragons, he has been an assistant for both Tonga and the Indigenous All Stars, giving him strong insights into the different operations of various teams and athletes.
Originally published as Competitive edge lands new assistant at the North Queensland Cowboys