The St George Illawarra Dragons have today determined to appoint Paul McGregor as Caretaker Coach for the rest of the 2014 season.
The Board recently resolved that the option for Steve Price to be Head Coach for 2015 would not be exercised and at the same time determined that a change was necessary for the remainder of this season.
"Steve Price has been involved at our Club for over 13 years. He is a person of the highest integrity who has contributed enormously to our Club in so many ways throughout this time," said Dragons CEO Peter Doust.
"Unfortunately team performance and results have not met the required standards, particularly this season, despite a refresh of performance management strategies and structure, at the end of last year, and a significant change to the playing roster.
"Whilst we can never predict the future, the Board determined that change was required for the balance of the 2014 season.
"The Club greatly appreciates and respects the commitment and work ethic that Steve has displayed at all times," added Doust.
Outgoing Coach Steve Price indicated that he was grateful his opportunities at the Dragons.
“I am grateful for the opportunities that the Dragons have provided me over all my years associated with the Club and would like to thank all involved,” said Price. “I’d like to wish Paul and the playing group all the very best”.
McGregor indicated that it was a difficult time and situation for everyone at the Dragons.
“The Board wanted the change to be as simple as possible for the players and for their sake I agreed,” said McGregor. “This is a difficult situation for me, Steve Price is a good friend of mine and we have worked closely together and I would have liked us to work through these tough times as one.
“This change will be a new challenge for the players to face but we have a good football team and good group of men”.
McGregor has returned to Wollongong for Dragons training this week in preparation for the Round 12 game against the Rabbitohs, although he will fulfill his Game 1 State of Origin duties for NSW in Brisbane on Wednesday night as this will not require him to miss any scheduled Dragons sessions this week.
The Club will now begin the search for a new Head Coach for next season and beyond immediately.
