Roosters coach Trent Robinson confirms coaches association on track to be finalised by January
IN a week when rugby league’s coaching circus reached breaking point, Roosters coach Trent Robinson says the necessity for a coaches association has never been greater.
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IN a week when rugby league’s coaching circus reached breaking point, Roosters coach Trent Robinson says the necessity for a coaches association has never been greater.
Robinson says Anthony Griffin’s sacking at Penrith highlights the ruthless nature of coaching in the NRL.
He believes Griffin’s departure also shows the importance for coaches to receive education and support as they work through one of sport’s most high-pressured jobs.
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Robinson confirmed the anticipated coaches’ association, headed by former Gold Coast, North Queensland and Canberra mentor Neil Henry, was on track to be set up by January.
“It’s important for the education and development of coaches in the way they are ready to handle the rigours of coaching,” Robinson said.
“It is also for the welfare of coaches.
“It can be short-term or it can be long-term, but you need support.
“Neil is leading that for us at the moment to really try and develop it and hopefully by January there is something strong in place.”
Coach’s contract rights have also been raised this week following Penrith’s attempts to lure Ivan Cleary from the Wests Tigers with two years remaining on his deal.
Robinson understands the unsettling aspect of broken contracts for all parties, but says it is also part of the unpredictability facing coaches.
“We are not oblivious to the role of a coach in our game and what can happen,” he said.
“There is no change that we want out of that.
“It is more about the education to get to a coach and while you are a coach.
“But I feel like if you are doing your job, you’ll be in it for a long time.
“It’s a tough game.
“It is the most enjoyable job. You won’t believe me, but it is an amazing job to do what we do.
“It is tough when it gets cut short. It is a tough week for the coaches there (at Penrith) but it just shows the responsibility that goes with it.”
Robinson said he felt sorry for Griffin following his sacking, but confident he resurrect his NRL career at another club.
“He is a good enough coach,” he said.
“His record has been really good. It is tough to take teams to the finals and he has done that, but I’m sure he will (get another job).”
Robinson feels like the Roosters are ready to take on archrivals South Sydney in Friday’s blockbuster top-of-the-table clash.
After struggling for cohesion earlier in the season, the Tricolours are the NRL’s No. 1 team in attack and defence.
Robinson watched the Rabbitohs run riot over Melbourne last week and is pumped at the prospect of playing Anthony Seibold’s men on the big stage at ANZ Stadium.
“I feel like there have been a few teams that have really developed over the last few months and I know we are one of them as well,” he said.
“That is why we are pretty excited about the clash against Souths on Friday night.”