After a thorough process, the Board and shareholders of the St George Illawarra Dragons have unanimously endorsed management’s recommendation that Dean Young be appointed the NRL Head Coach on a two-year term.
“We said from the outset that we would take the time needed to make the right decision for the Club’s future. This has been a structured process, and Dean has emerged as the candidate we believe is best placed to lead the next phase of our football program,” said Dragons CEO Tim Watsford.
“Dean’s history with the Dragons is well known and respected, but that is not why he has been appointed. This decision is based on the strength of his football plan, his connection with players, his leadership of staff, his alignment with our pathways and recruitment strategy, and his understanding of what this Club needs to become.
“We understand our members and supporters want results. So do we. Dean recognises the responsibility that comes with this role, and he will be supported by a football structure designed to drive standards, development and performance throughout the program.”
Young has served as the interim head coach since Round 8 of this season, having taken over from Shane Flanagan, and is excited to continue his coaching journey at the club.
“Leading this great club is a privilege, but I understand that it also comes with responsibility and pressure,” Young said.
“I have experienced success and failure in this game, as both a player and a coach. Those experiences have given me the confidence to lead this club back to where it belongs.
“I want our fans to be proud of our football team. Proud of how hard we compete and how consistent we are. It’s my job to create an environment that delivers these values.
“We have only just started to see the potential of this team. There’s a lot more work to be done.”
Dragons Chair Andrew Lancaster reinforced the detailed process that the Club management went through to reach a decision.
“The Board understands the significance of this appointment and all that comes with it. Tim and our leadership team have undertaken a thorough selection process, and the Board is confident in, and supportive of, that process and the outcome," Lancaster added.
“Dean has the Board’s full support, and there will be clear accountability for the performance standards expected of him in the role.”
Young has previously been part of the North Queensland Cowboys, New South Wales State of Origin and Tongan national side coaching setups as an assistant.
The 42-year-old played 209 games for the Dragons over 10 seasons, winning the premiership in 2010. He also represented NSW and Australia.
