Two-time Dally M Coach of the Year Brian Smith joins Casino Cougars as coaching consultant for 2024 season

Brian Smith – two-time Dally M Coach of the Year – has answered the call to take up a coaching role in a footy-mad little North Coast town amid a club leadership shake-up.

New Casino Cougars coaching consultant for 2024, two-time Dally M Coach of the Year winner Brian Smith.

Brian Smith, two time Dally M Coach of the Year, has answered the call to take up a coaching role in a footy-mad little North Coast town.

Smith will be a coaching consultant for the Casino Cougars Rugby League Football Club at Casino in the 2024 season, returning to his roots.

He donned the first grade halfback jersey before moving to Sydney to play and later coach.

Smith spent time at the helm of the Illawarra Steelers/St George Dragons, Parramatta Eels, Newcastle Knights, and Sydney Roosters.

He also managed the New Zealand Warriors and led Super League teams Wakefield Trinity, Hull FC, and the Bradford Bulls.

His new role comes off the back of Cougars stalwart Joe Maloney stepping back from official duties.

2002 Casino RSM Cougars first grade side. Picture: Supplied

League identity and Cougars junior Trav Falls will take on the role of president, while esteemed Cougars hard man and life member Chris McGrath, will serve as vice president.

The club’s products include Ross Conlon, Ben Kennedy, Cody Walker and Matt King.

“Brian is renowned for his expertise as a top-notch development coach and educator in fundamental aspects of the game,” Falls said.

“This underscores the dedication to improving the experience for players and coaches at the club.”

Evans Head defenders test the durability of Travis Falls' retro jumper.

Falls said he wanted the club to be the “pride of the community” by helping young players work through junior ranks.

He said the team was keen to give the players a “sense of belonging”.

Club life member and junior president Kirk Hancock, along with under-18 award-winning coach and senior vice president of the juniors Ben Birney, are on board.

“The new club committee wants to maintain a strong focus on achieving success on the field in all grades, while equalling recognising the vital role the Cougars play in the community,” Falls said.

Casino Cougars Coach of the Year Ben Birney.

Richmond Valley Council and Casino Rugby League funding has resulted in new field fencing, underground irrigation, a new top-surface, upgrades to a second field and a $1.6 million clubhouse facelift.

“The seniors will relocate to the junior fields, enhancing the connection between junior and senior players and fostering efficiency through shared facilities,” Falls said.

He praised the Cougars top sponsor since 1966, Casino RSM Club, and also gave a shout out to supporters Casino Food Co-op.