Coaches re-sign for 2011 season

THE Grafton Ghosts received some good news last week with premiership-winning first grade coach Col Speed agreeing to take on the role for the 2011 season.

THE Grafton Ghosts received some good news last week with premiership-winning first grade coach Col Speed agreeing to take on the role for the 2011 season.

Grafton Ghosts’ player/manager Mark Hall said the club was delighted to sign Speed for the upcoming NRRRL season

“Col has agreed to coach for the 2011 season, which is fantastic news for the club,” Hall told The Daily Examiner.

“From when Col was first appointed he has turned the club around dramatically, not only in performance but in attitude.

“The club is in a lot better position since Col took over the reins. His professional attitude has been just what the Ghosts needed.”

Speed, who has enjoyed plenty of success as coach at the Ghosts, was the mastermind behind their incredible run last year, going through the entire season undefeated.

Mark Hooklyn has also agreed to another term with the Ghosts as reserve grade coach, with Warwick Brown again taking on the under-18 position.

“Mark got the reserve grade side fit last season and didn’t hesitate to re-sign once Col was appointed,” Hall said. “Mark has also brought a better attitude to reserve grade training and his knowledge as a past A-grade player has helped.

“Warwick has literally achieved the same level as Col with the under-18s going through the season undefeated.”

In other news, grand final-winning lock-forward Don Dickson looks like taking on the position as player/coach of Ballina.

It’s no secret Ballina – and in particular outgoing coach Brian Battese – have big wraps on Dickson and with Damian Sironen and star half-back Andrew Battese departing the club next season the versatile Dickson will be a handy acquisition.

As expected, Ghosts try-scoring machine Anthony Don may also be moving on and is expected to sign with Queensland Cup side Burleigh Bears.

The Ghosts will also be without English import and front-rower Dave Emmott and Welsh import and hooker Thomas Burnell, who are both returning home after successful stints at the club.

According to the Ghosts, local junior Adam Elliott is set to return to the fold as is exciting forward Dan Shipman. The Ghosts will be holding a sign-on night and barbecue at Frank McGuren Field tomorrow at 6pm.

All players are welcome. Anyone interested can contact Mark Hall on 0438 426 829.

Originally published as Coaches re-sign for 2011 season