Dragons’ surprise announcement on Anthony Griffin’s future

There has been frenzied speculation surrounding the future of Anthony Griffin. Now the Dragons have made a final decision.

Anthony Griffin appears on NRL360. Picture: Toby Zerna.

Dragons coach Anthony Griffin has been granted a contract extension through to the end of the 2023 NRL season.

The veteran mentor was under pressure heading into the 2022 season after speculation roared last year the club would not extend his existing contract beyond 2022.

However, the club made a surprise announcement from out of nowhere on Wednesday confirming Griffin will remain in charge for a further season.

The team’s statement announced the club had made a decision at a scheduled board meeting this week to activate a clause in the club’s favour to extend Griffin’s deal until the end of 2023.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the club had until August to activate the clause or not.

Griffin has been at the centre of the club’s roster overhaul with the club recently signing ageing stars Aaron Woods, George Burgess and Moses Mbye.

Despite the club being considered outsiders with bookmakers to play finals football in 2022, the club’s statement showed the organisation has full faith in Griffin.

The Dragons will look very different in 2022. Picture: NRL Photos

“I am very appreciative to extend my time as head coach of the Dragons,” Griffin said.

“We are heading in the right direction, and myself and all the great people at the club are determined to play our roles in bringing future success to the Dragons.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time so far and I’m excited by what’s to come this season and beyond.

“The challenge of a new year starts this weekend in our first trial against Parramatta, and my immediate focus remains on a strong preparation for the upcoming season.”

Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb said: “The club has undertaken a lot of change in the last 18 months and Anthony has played a positive role, both on and off the field.

“The board and I feel Anthony is the right man to continue setting the required standards to return the Dragons back to where they belong.”

Originally published as Dragons’ surprise announcement on Anthony Griffin’s future