Brian Smith to coach the Chooks in 2010...Who'll coach the Knights?

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Johns' management refuses to rule out Knights job

Johns' management refuses to rule out Knights jobRugby League Live... scandal which occurred during Cronulla's 2002 pre-season trip to New Zealand. He had juggled his media commitments with coaching roles at various NRL ...

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Johns' management refuses to rule out Knights job
AAP
20/07/09

Matthew Johns' management team wouldn't rule out the possibility of the fallen media personality making a run at the vacant Newcastle coaching job.

Speculation surfaced on Monday that Johns was considering applying for the post following Brian Smith's decision to walk out on the final year of his deal to link up with the Sydney Roosters.

"Matthew is keeping his career options open," was all manager John Fordham would say when asked if Johns was contemplating applying for the role.

Johns was suspended indefinitely by the Nine Network in May following the airing of a report detailing his involvement in the group sex scandal which occurred during Cronulla's 2002 pre-season trip to New Zealand.

He had juggled his media commitments with coaching roles at various NRL clubs - the most notable of which was his regular consultancy role with Melbourne.

That role was also discontinued in May, though Johns had received plenty of praise for his coaching nous.

Johns is one of the Knights' favourite sons, with many in the region still upset at the way he was squeezed out of the club due to salary cap restraints in 2000 after 176 games in the red and blue.

"He's loved by everybody at Newcastle, he's been an integral part of our club for a long time," Knights chief executive Steve Burraston told the Nine Network.

"I'm not sure if he wants to do it, but I'm sure he would be a strong contender."

Asked if the sex scandal would impact on Johns's chances of getting the job, Burraston said: "I think that we're talking about something that happened seven years ago.

"I don't think it's a public matter, I think it's something for him and his family to work out.

"I think we're well beyond that."

"Matthew is keeping his career options open".....John Fordham, Johns' manager

 

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Knights consider moving for Johns

Knights consider moving for JohnsABC Online... sex scandal which occurred during Cronulla's 2002 preseason trip to New Zealand. He had juggled his media commitments with coaching roles at various NRL ...and more »

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Knights consider moving for Johns
-AAP
Posted July 21, 2009 00:00:00

Matthew Johns has experience as a coaching consultant at numerous NRL clubs, most notably Melbourne.

Matthew Johns's management team has not ruled out the possibility of the fallen media personality making a run at the vacant Newcastle coaching job.

Speculation has surfaced that Johns is considering applying for the post following Brian Smith's decision to walk out on the final year of his deal to link up with the Sydney Roosters.

"Matthew is keeping his career options open," was all manager John Fordham would say when asked if Johns was contemplating applying for the role.

Johns was suspended indefinitely by the Nine Network in May following the airing of a report detailing his involvement in the group sex scandal which occurred during Cronulla's 2002 preseason trip to New Zealand.

He had juggled his media commitments with coaching roles at various NRL clubs - the most notable of which was his regular consultancy role with Melbourne.

That role was also discontinued in May, though Johns had received plenty of praise for his coaching nous.

Johns is one of the Knights' favourite sons, with many in the region still upset at the way he was squeezed out of the club due to salary cap restraints in 2000 after 176 games in the red and blue.

"He's loved by everybody at Newcastle, he's been an integral part of our club for a long time," Knights chief executive Steve Burraston told the Nine Network.

"I'm not sure if he wants to do it, but I'm sure he would be a strong contender."

Asked if the sex scandal would impact on Johns's chances of getting the job, Burraston said: "I think that we're talking about something that happened seven years ago.

"I don't think it's a public matter, I think it's something for him and his family to work out. I think we're well beyond that."

 

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Andrew Voss under fire for Origin indiscretion

Andrew Voss under fire for Origin indiscretionMelbourne Herald SunWe hear new Cronulla board member Damien Irvine is trying to lure Treister into sponsoring the embattled club next year. And Irvine is a chance . . . the ...

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Andrew Voss under fire for Origin indiscretion
By Josh Massoud
July 20, 2009 07:59pm

<EDITED>

ROOSTERS recruitment manager Peter O'Sullivan was in South Africa signing players when Brad Fittler was told he would not be required next year. The man responsible for finding Greg Inglis was greeted with a series of messages telling him of the news when he turned on his phone on his arrival yesterday. O'Sullivan worked under Fittler's replacement Brian Smith at the Dragons.

 

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Johns in the mix to coach Newcastle

Johns in the mix to coach NewcastleThe AustralianThe former Nine personality could also face opposition from the NRL after chief executive David Gallop said it was difficult to see a future for Johns in ...

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Matthew Johns in the mix to coach Newcastle Knights
Stuart Honeysett and Brent Read
July 21, 2009

MATTHEW Johns is still a favourite son at Newcastle and now the disgraced Nine Network personality could be poised to make a remarkable return to the club and the game after being linked to the coaching job.

The Australian was told last night by a source in the Newcastle camp that Johns was definitely interested in taking on the position as first grade coach.

Johns has kept a low profile since losing his lucrative Nine contract and standing down from other minor coaching roles over his involvement in a group-sex scandal during his playing days at Cronulla in 2002.

The scandal was revisited this year in April during a ABC Four Corners report that interviewed the woman who claimed she had been subject to several degrading acts by Johns and other Sharks players in Christchurch.

Johns has been linked to resurrecting his career with Sydney radio station Triple M and speculation continues whether he will make a surprise appearance on Nine for the NRL grand final or reprise his role again on The Footy Show next year.

However, those roles would become superfluous if Johns secured the coaching gig at Newcastle that will be vacated at the end of the season by Brian Smith.

Smith still had another year to run on on his contract, but it emerged over the weekend that he had negotiated a $2.4 million, four-year offer to replace Brad Fittler at the Sydney Roosters.

There would be several hurdles for Johns to overcome, first whether the club's sponsors would be comfortable with him taking on the role.

The former Nine personality could also face opposition from the NRL after chief executive David Gallop said it was difficult to see a future for Johns in the game.

However, he would certainly win the support of parochial hometown fans to whom he was a crowd favourite with brother and champion halfback, Andrew, when he played there from 1992-2000.

Johns' manager, Nick Fordham, confirmed last night the former Knights five-eighth could be interested in returning to take over the club's coaching reins.

"Matthew Johns would be open to all opportunities," Fordham said.

Several candidates for the Newcastle position include former Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes, Sharks assistant Shane Flanagan, Melbourne's Michael Maguire and Smith's right-hand man at the Knights, Rick Stone.

Newcastle chief executive Steve Burraston confirmed the club would seriously consider Johns if he were genuinely interested in the job.

"I know his media commitments are a bit off the boil at the moment, but I'm sure they will come back for him at some stage and I know that was keeping him from full-time coaching," Burraston said. "But if Matty has got something to offer there, I'd never say no."

News of Johns' possible interest overshadowed Smith breaking his silence yesterday as to why he chose to leave Newcastle despite having a year left on his contract.

The Newcastle coach said he was focused on finishing the season on a high note with the Knights and was looking forward to the challenge next season of restoring the Roosters to being a powerhouse again in the NRL.

There are plenty who believe Smith will have his work cut out given the Roosters have been beset by off-field dramas this season and are heavy favourites for the wooden spoon.

"I don't know that this is a rebuild situation at all," Smith said yesterday. "I think they've got a pretty good playing roster, they're certainly very young.

"I'm sure I'll end up putting my own mark on the place, but I don't see the Roosters as being the basket cases that everyone feared Newcastle would become when Andrew Johns retired.

"There might be a bit of stuff to be done there, but I don't think it would be any different to the majority of other clubs."

One of those problems includes player discipline, with the Roosters embroiled in several scandals this season that prompted a fed-up NRL to fine the club $50,000.

A strict disciplinarian, Smith said he would wait before determining if he needed a firm approach. "I learned a long time ago that until you really know about problems, they can sometimes appear to be twice as bad as you think and they can sometimes be as half as bad as you think," he said.

 

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Written in Stone - Gold Coast News

Written in StoneGold Coast News - goldcoast.com.auFORMER Burleigh Bears coach Rick Stone is at `unbackable odds' to take the helm of the Newcastle Knights when Brian Smith departs the club at the end of the ...and more »

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Written in Stone
July 21st, 2009

FORMER Burleigh Bears coach Rick Stone is at `unbackable odds' to take the helm of the Newcastle Knights when Brian Smith departs the club at the end of the year.

The Knights board met yesterday to rubber stamp Smith's release but will officially leave a decision on his replacement until the end of August.

Stone has the support of the hierarchy and the players and now seems certain to get the job.

Stone is the current assistant coach at the Knights. The former long-term Burleigh Bears coach is a local Newcastle boy who was brought to the Knights by former coach Michael Hagan and has been in the system for more than four years.

There were suggestions last night Smith chased the Roosters coaching post because he believed Stone was being groomed to take over at the Knights sooner rather than later.

"He suspected he was on the outer and that there would be a push for Stoney to take over,"one source said.

"He could see the writing on the wall because he was never viewed as a long-term coach here."

Smith yesterday justified walking out on the Newcastle Knights at the end of the season by claiming it was the business decision he had to make.

In a further sign loyalty in the game is dead and buried, Smith admitted the security of a four-year contract with the Sydney Roosters was the big factor in seeking a release from the final year of his contract at the Knights.

Smith will remain as Newcastle coach until the end of the season with his assistant Rick Stone now at unbackable odds to replace him.

Smith intimated as much yesterday when he said of the Knights decision to only offer him a new one-year deal at the start of the season: "When it came back as a one-year offer, we all knew what that meant."

In explaining his decision to walk, Smith said it was simply a case of one club wanting a coach and one coach wanting a club.

"It's a business decision. A bit too much has been made of the money. The tenure issue is the big thing," he said.

"I'm 55 years old and I was flattered by a long-term offer, particularly from a strong club like the Roosters. I took it as a business decision. When Denis Fitzgerald (former Parramatta CEO) tapped me on the shoulder, it was a business decision.

"Surely I'm allowed to make one."

Smith spoke yesterday morning to the players for the first time since news broke of his defection.

After a short get-together, the players then met on their own without the coach to talk about the issue prior to a public training session in front of a couple of hundred supporters at Energy Australia Stadium .

Smith admitted the thought of linking with the troubled Roosters appealed to him.

"I just see it as a great opportunity,"he said.

"I live for these sorts of challenges."

Asked did he feel he was walking out on the Knights, he said: "The club is in a great position. Whoever gets the coaching gig in 2010 has an ideal opportunity to move forward."

 

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Rick has rock-solid support for Knights job - Gold Coast News

Rick has rock-solid support for Knights jobGold Coast News - goldcoast.com.auFORMER Test star Adam `Mad Dog' MacDougall has thrown his support behind the campaign for one-time Burleigh Bears coach Rick Stone to replace Brian Smith at ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2009/07/21/99835_gold-coast-sport.html&usg=AFQjCNHxZDmgwxJ-NohE0r357SPUPcqP9A

Rick has rock-solid support for Knights job
Patrick Molihan
July 21st, 2009

FORMER Test star Adam `Mad Dog' MacDougall has thrown his support behind the campaign for one-time Burleigh Bears coach Rick Stone to replace Brian Smith at the helm of the Knights.

A conga line of Newcastle stars are queuing up to back Stone as the race for the number one job heats up.

The former South Sydney utility has the backing of Knights club legend Andrew Johns and MacDougall is also a fan.

"It's not really my job as a player to buy into the political side of things but he's a great guy Rick and I'm sure if he was given an opportunity he'd do a great job," said MacDougall.

"You know we all love him here and I'm sure if he was the coach we'd all give him a glowing endorsement."

Knights chief executive Steve Burraston has assured captain Kurt Gidley he will have input into the decision which is a positive for Stone considering he's also thrown his support behind Smith's assistant.

"Yeah, I think so," said Gidley when asked whether Stone was up to the job.

"He's a really good fella off the field and he's got a good relationship with the boys and he's certainly passionate about his footy and this club and this town that's for sure.

"So I'd be very happy to be coached by him."

Gidley is determined to have a say: "I signed here for four years so it's certainly my future that's gonna be involved in the next period.

"As a player I'd like to have some sort of input on who's gonna be coach for my future."

Smith explained his decision to quit the club with a year remaining on his contract as 'purely business'.

The players were disappointed not to 'hear it from the coach' but with Smith only offered a one-year deal by the Knights as opposed to a four-season contract with the Roosters none were about to criticise him.

 

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Knights players urged to have their say

Knights players urged to have their sayNewcastle HeraldKNIGHTS chief executive Steve Burraston has extended an open invitation to Newcastle's players to help select their new coach for next ...and more »

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Knights players urged to have their say
BY ROBERT DILLON
21/07/2009 4:00:00 AM

KNIGHTS chief executive Steve Burraston has extended an open invitation to Newcastle's players to help select their new coach for next season.

Burraston said he had told players they were welcome to contact him in coming days if they would like to offer input into the selection process, and he plans to hold one-on-one meetings with veterans such as skipper Kurt Gidley, Steve Simpson, Adam MacDougall and Ben Cross.

"At the end of the day it will be a board decision, but we'll be consulting the players because their opinions are very important," Burraston said last night.

"That's not to say it's a case of the lunatics running the asylum. It's just about paying them due respect.

"The last thing you would want is to appoint a coach who doesn't have the respect of his players."

Burraston said the "most vital" opinion would be that of Gidley, who is likely to captain Newcastle for at least another three seasons.

"Kurt and I have already spoken about that, and of course I want his input," Burraston said.

"He's a senior player, our club captain, and we see him as the future of our club.

"Hopefully we'll have him until the end of his career. He's an integral part of this place and part of that decision-making process."

Gidley said he appreciated Burraston's offer and would like to play his part in helping choose Brian Smith's replacement.

"I signed here for four years, so it's certainly my future that's going to be involved in the club for the next period," Gidley said. "As a player, I'd like to have some sort of input into who's going to be coach for my future."

MacDougall also volunteered to consult with management if required.

"That's up to them," he said. "We're paid to be footballers, first and foremost, but I can't see it hurting to get the opinions of the players. They're the ones that have to work with the coach, and I think there's a couple of senior players that could have some valuable input."

Smith said he was happy to offer Knights officials an insight into his assistant coaches but did not intend to share his thoughts with the media.

"Everyone in this club knows what I think of the coaching staff that's been assembled here," Smith said.

"They've been outstanding. They've made fantastic contributions.

"But the head coach position is not for me to comment on. If someone wanted to speak to me privately, that would be the only place I would do that."

Newcastle assistant coach Rick Stone is the early favourite for the vacancy, but the club is sure to be inundated with applications. Former Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes expressed interest yesterday and former Knights legend Matthew Johns was reportedly considering making an approach.

"Matthew is keeping his career options open," was all manager John Fordham would say when asked if Johns was contemplating applying for the role.

When asked about Johns applying for the job, Burraston told Channel Nine news last night: "I'm not sure if he wants to do it, but I'm sure he would be a strong contender."

Meanwhile, forward Chris Houston is booked in for knee surgery and is expected to be sidelined for a month.

 

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Unknown who wants Brian Smith's Newcastle gig

Unknown who wants Brian Smith's Newcastle gigDaily TelegraphAlthough untried at NRL level, Stone said he was ready to step-up and take on one of the plum jobs in rugby league. The Daily Telegraph understands ...and more »

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Unknown who wants Brian Smith's Newcastle gig
By Dean Ritchie
July 21, 2009 8:57PM

HE is an unknown who has stood in the shadows at Newcastle behind Michael Hagan and Brian Smith for four years. But this is the man ready to step into the light and coach the mighty Newcastle Knights.

Rick Stone, Newcastle's assistant coach, has the support of the players and is good mates with Knights legend and club director Paul Harragon. Although untried at NRL level, Stone said he was ready to step-up and take on one of the plum jobs in rugby league.

The Daily Telegraph understands Newcastle want to name a replacement for Roosters-bound Brian Smith by the end of August.

Stone joins a number of other high-profile contenders including Matthew Johns, David Fairleigh, Steve Folkes and Shane Flanagan.

Stone is the brother of former Canberra player Steve.

"I'm ready to step into the top role and be comfortable," he said.

"I have a good relationship with the Newcastle players and I think my man-management skills are good.

"I think players are comfortable with me and they understand quickly what point I'm trying to get across.

"Hopefully I am also a coach the players want to play under.

"If they aren't looking for someone with NRL experience - then I am confident I could be a success if given the job."

Stone, 42, coached the Burleigh Bears for 10 years in the Queensland Cup. He had a winning success rate of 80 per cent, reaching four grand finals and missing the finals just once.

Stone also played for Lakes United in the local Newcastle competition before three seasons with Souths in Sydney in 1988, 1989 and 1990. He then captain-coached Nambucca Heads in 1992-93 before moving into the Queensland Cup. Asked what his strength was, Stone said: "The biggest ally I have is that I believe in the processes and structure that Brian has put into place.

"The players believe in them too.

"I think I could keep that going and keep those structures in place.

"Working with Michael Hagan and Brian Smith has put the finishing touches on my coaching career.

"I am inexperienced at NRL level but I have a wealth of experience when it comes to coaching. It's a matter of what the club wants."

Hagan, meanwhile, gave Stone a huge wrap, adding that he had "plenty of knowledge and has served a good apprenticeship".

 

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I can't see Matt Johns as coach of Knights

I can't see Matt Johns as coach of KnightsCourier MailI HAVEN'T spoken to my brother Matthew yet about the speculation linking him to the Knights coaching job. ...and more »

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I can't see Matt Johns as coach of Knights
By Andrew Johns
July 21, 2009 09:01pm

I HAVEN'T spoken to my brother Matthew yet about the speculation linking him to the Knights coaching job.

I will say this, though: I'd be really surprised if he was seriously thinking of throwing his hat into the ring. One thing I am certain of - I won't be.

I love the club but it's not something I would even contemplate doing. I had a tiny sample of what it's like during the Origin and there is no way I would get on that rollercoaster eight months of the year.

Like almost everyone, I had absolutely no inkling Brian Smith was even considering moving on from Newcastle. But when you sit back and think about it, the whole thing is pretty logical.

He had another year guaranteed at the Knights but that's all and it's pretty obvious the club didn't want him for any length of t ime after that.

I can understand some people blowing up about a lack of loyalty. But let's be honest, what incentive is there to be loyal in our game?

Long-serving players who do the right thing by clubs become a salary cap hinderance and end up getting farmed out to English clubs.

Teams lose a string of games and all of a sudden, a coach's head is on the chopping block. That's unfortunately the reality these days.

I'd like to see a young, up-and-coming coach get the gig - someone like a Rick Stone, or a Michael Maguire or a Stephen Kearney, who have all done an apprenticeship and deserve an opportunity.

As for the Sydney Roosters and the way they have handled this whole coaching issue, I'm disgusted about the way they have treated Brad Fittler. For the Under 20's strapper to find out before Freddy is a disgrace.

And what about the comment - in front of Freddy at a press conference - that they had "found someone better for the job".

What a kick in the guts that was for someone who has done so much for the club, both as a player when he led them to a premiership, and as a coach who took on the job last year in their hour of need.

It is beyond belief a club legend could be treated like that after what he has contributed to the place.

 

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Matthew Johns not ready for coaching gig

Matthew Johns not ready for coaching gigNewcastle HeraldJUST when I thought the silliest suggestion of the week was that Brian Smith should resign immediately, along came speculation that Matthew Johns could be a ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/sport/rugby-league/matthew-johns-not-ready-for-coaching-gig/1574044.aspx&usg=AFQjCNGEe_I1PenJGcC2WUeqefu67pjPYg

Matthew Johns not ready for coaching gig
COMMENT BY ROBERT DILLON
22/07/2009 4:00:00 AM

JUST when I thought the silliest suggestion of the week was that Brian Smith should resign immediately, along came speculation that Matthew Johns could be a candidate to replace him.

The usual suspects have been demanding Smith vacate his post for his supposedly dishonourable, disloyal act in seeking a release to join the Roosters next year.

Those critics would love nothing more than to parade around with Smith's head on a platter, but what would it achieve other than satisfying their bloodlust?

The reality is the Knights need the veteran coach more now than at any time since he joined them.

Fifth on the ladder with seven games remaining, Newcastle are a genuine chance of claiming a top-four berth and a play-off at EnergyAustralia Stadium.

From there, anything is possible.

The last thing the Knights need is the upheaval that replacing Smith would cause.

The players certainly want Smith in charge for the rest of this campaign.

They know he can produce a game plan to trouble any opposition, and his experience will be crucial in the big games ahead.

Sacking him would also leave the caretaker coach in an unenviable position.

Just imagine that the Knights handed the job to assistant coach Rick Stone today and the team was hit by an injury crisis.

The pressure on Stone would be intense, and if Newcastle subsequently faded out of the finals race, he would be an instant scapegoat.

Rather than throw Stone to the wolves, let him wait until the pre-season and take charge of the team on his own merits.

In the meantime, Smith deserves the chance to realise his destiny, whatever that may be.

As for rumours that Johns is a contender to inherit Smith's clipboard and stopwatch next season, does anyone honestly believe that is a realistic prospect?

Johns and his brother, Andrew, are no doubt fantastic students of the game. They have proven themselves to be outstanding individual mentors and skills coaches at a variety of clubs.

But taking on a head coach's position is another matter altogether.

The logistics are mind-blowing. It is not just a matter of giving the team a pre-match pep talk and juggling the interchanges for 80 minutes.

The coach is responsible for every aspect of the operation, from the club's junior teams up to first grade, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

It is an all-consuming occupation that attracts intense scrutiny. No place for an L-plater.

If Matthew Johns was handed the job, probably the first question he would ask is: "Where do I start?"

He would need to be shown the ropes by his staff, and surely that is exactly the opposite of how the process should work.

If Johns is serious about becoming a coach, the only way is for him to serve an apprenticeship.

He could start out with one of Newcastle's under-age teams, or possibly as an assistant coach who runs the water bottle and messages on game day, just as Craig Bellamy, Ricky Stuart, Brad Fittler, Nathan Brown, David Furner and Ivan Henjak have done in recent seasons.

He would need a couple of years' schooling in the basics of professional coaching.

At that point he might be ready to start a coaching career, providing he had displayed one crucial trait: a masochistic streak.

 

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Burraston confident Brian Smith won't try to poach players

Burraston confident Brian Smith won't try to poach playersNewcastle Herald... NRL coaches Steve Folkes, Graham Murray and Graeme Lowe have expressed interest in the job, along with assistant coaches Shane Flanagan (Cronulla) and ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/sport/rugby-league/burraston-confident-brian-smith-wont-try-to-poach-players/1574042.aspx&usg=AFQjCNGIQButShYtDvZYjlxL3zowSix34Q

Burraston confident Brian Smith won't try to poach players
BY ROBERT DILLON
22/07/2009 4:00:00 AM

KNIGHTS chief executive Steve Burraston is confident departing coach Brian Smith will not try to plunder Newcastle's playing stocks after he joins the Sydney Roosters at season's end.

Smith caused one of the shocks of the season last weekend by securing a release from the Knights to accept a four-year deal with the Roosters.

Time and salary cap constraints will prevent Smith from making many recruitment decisions before his first season at Bondi Junction kicks off.

But, as he showed at Newcastle in 2007, he is not shy about discarding established players to create room under the salary cap for fresh blood.

By midway through next season, Smith could be ready to start spending, and at the same time the Knights could be struggling to provide the pay rises that some of their players will be seeking.

Burraston said yesterday that it was unlikely that Smith would head-hunt Newcastle players to join him at the Roosters.

"I give Brian Smith more credit as a person than that," Burraston said.

"I'm sure he would not try to rape our club.

"I'm sure that's not what he's about.

"I've been able to spend almost three years with him now, and I know the character of the person.

"I'm sure that's not what he'd want to do, and I also know the players very well.

"I know they're very much enjoying playing in Newcastle and it would take something pretty special to get them out, I would imagine."

Smith said yesterday that he would start focusing on the Roosters when Newcastle's campaign had run its course but doubted whether any Knights players would want to follow him down the F3.

"I wouldn't even know if the Roosters would have any interest in them," Smith said.

"That sort of stuff would be based on what the Roosters have already got and what they need in the future, and that's way off.

"On top of that, I'd be very surprised if any of the players in this club want to leave.

"I think most of those boys will be happy playing for the Knights if their form continues like they have been playing.

"If they're still wanted by the Knights, I doubt they'll be going anywhere."

The majority of Newcastle's personnel for next season is secure and only a handful of fringe players Shannon McDonnell, Cameron Ciraldo, George Ndaira, Luke MacDougall and Tim Natusch remain free agents.

But a host of stars, including Steve Simpson, Ben Cross, Danny Wicks, Zeb Taia, Chris Houston, Wes Naiqama, Mark Taufua, Ben Rogers, Scott Dureau, Cooper Vuna and Adam MacDougall and Constantine Mika, come off contract at the end of 2010.

Further big names will become free agents at the end of 2011, including Kurt Gidley, Jarrod Mullen, James McManus, Matt Hilder, Junior Sau, Isaac De Gois and Keith Lulia.

Burraston said it would have been unfeasible to ask Smith for an undertaking, in exchange for releasing him early from his contract, not to target Newcastle players when he joins the Roosters.

"I don't think that would work," Burraston said.

"That would be a restriction of trade and would be easily defeated in court."

To be fair, the only Newcastle player Smith has signed from his former club, Parramatta, is Taia, who was languishing in reserve grade at the Eels.

Meanwhile, Burraston said applications for the soon-to-be-vacant coaching role had been "coming thick and fast", but former club legend Matthew Johns was not among them.

"At this stage Matthew is keeping his options open but is not an applicant for the position," Burraston said.

"I understand he has a number of work opportunities he is exploring."

It is understood that former NRL coaches Steve Folkes, Graham Murray and Graeme Lowe have expressed interest in the job, along with assistant coaches Shane Flanagan (Cronulla) and Michael Maguire (Melbourne).

Knights assistant coach Rick Stone remains the favourite, but Newcastle's board of directors have given themselves until the end of August to reach a decision.

 

[baanya]

Could Matty Johns get a coaching gig??

Some talk recently bout Matty Johns returning to the NRL as a coach...(newcastle).... after waht he has been through i dont think it would be possible for him to get a job in the NRL ... also i think that his name being mentioned is just a way for him to test the waters for a return in a few years in some form...

no one would touch him... would they???

 

[Master Sharky]

Knights CEO Steve Burraston has confirmed he would seriously consider Matty as a coach if he applied for the position. And so they should, what he done was not against the law and happens everyday in the real world. He has paid a big enough price for it already!!

 

[Dennis Crane]

It would be a just homecoming for Matty after the disgraceful way they cut him in 2000.

 

[Google News]

Knights need to chase Matthew Johns

Knights need to chase Matthew JohnsThe AustralianJohns has been in exile since losing his lucrative Nine Network contract over his involvement in a group-sex scandal while playing with Cronulla in 2002. ...

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25817089-5012431,00.html&usg=AFQjCNFhAjUdaFTOqIbd7GFGZpZokvkgag

Knights need to chase Matthew Johns
Stuart Honeysett
July 22, 2009

NEWCASTLE does not believe Matthew Johns will apply for the vacant coaching position at the club but does believe it is time for the game to forgive him.

Johns has been in exile since losing his lucrative Nine Network contract over his involvement in a group-sex scandal while playing with Cronulla in 2002.

It is understood Johns could be interested in the Knights coaching job following Brian Smith's decision to quit to replace Brad Fittler at the Sydney Roosters next season.

However, an impasse is looming. The Australian was told that Johns would prefer to be wooed by club officials rather than express an interest himself.

Regardless of how it unfolds, Knights chief executive Steve Burraston said he believed Johns had paid a heavy price and the game should welcome him back.

"I don't think he will make application," Burraston said.

"He's certainly not a candidate at this stage and my understanding is that he's considering a number of work opportunities.

"But my personal view on Matthew Johns is that it happened seven years ago, it was a personal matter for him and his family, and it's time that we did move on. He's served a huge penalty for what's gone on, personally and obviously from his career, and I think he's probably suffered enough and it's time that we got over it and got on with business."

The Knights hope to have an announcement on the coaching position by the end of August and there have already been several candidates linked to the job, including former Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes, Cronulla's Shane Flanagan, Melbourne's Michael Maguire and Newcastle's Rick Stone and Trent Robinson.

If Johns were to be thrown into that mix, Burraston acknowledged the club would have to check with its sponsors, including major backer Coal and Allied, that they would not oppose the recruitment. The Australian contacted Coal and Allied yesterday to sound out its position on the issue but the mining company would not commit.

"We note the speculation in the media but Coal and Allied doesn't comment on the speculation," a spokesperson said.

The Knights would also have to run it past NRL chief executive David Gallop after he said there was a huge question mark over Johns' future in the game when the 2002 group sex-scandal was resurrected in April. Gallop is on leave and declined to comment when contacted last night.

Former Newcastle director and Knights prop Tony Butterfield said yesterday that he always believed Johns would make a successful NRL coach.

Johns has held minor coaching roles at both the Sydney Roosters and Melbourne but stood down from all his responsibilities over the 2002 incident.

Johns is a favourite son in the Newcastle region and there are plenty who believe his football brain would see him make a successful first-grade coach. "He's a local icon up here as is brother (Andrew) and he's had some experience as an NRL skills coach so I'm sure there's some things he can bring to the table," Butterfield said.

"Generally speaking Matthew would be a good candidate but whether or not the board would consider he's had a sufficient apprenticeship to take on what is an extremely demanding role in the modern game."

* North Queensland is facing a hooker crisis for Saturday night's match against Penrith after Anthony Watts on Tuesday accepted a one-match ban for striking.

Watts took the early guilty plea for punching Wests Tigers captain Robbie Farah at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday. Farah escaped suspension after also pleading guilty to a retaliatory punch.

With first-choice hooker Aaron Payne (shoulder) and back-up Clint Amos (knee) out for the season, Cowboys coach Neil Henry will name a makeshift No.9 against the Panthers.

 

[Google News]

Johns rules out Knights coaching interest

Johns rules out Knights coaching interestABC Online... the Knights today to say that is not the case. Johns apparently wants to take on an assistant coaching role in the NRL before moving to head coaching.and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/07/22/2633554.htm&usg=AFQjCNEtwlzrggBO3XX2pprMny8MjhPDKg

Johns rules out Knights coaching interest
Posted July 22, 2009 18:00:00

It is understood Matthew Johns has ruled himself out as a contender for the Newcastle Knights' vacant coaching role.

Brian Smith is defecting to the Roosters next year and Knights assistant coach Rick Stone is seen as the front-runner to takeover.

There has also been speculation Johns might be interested, but the ABC has been told his manager contacted the Knights today to say that is not the case.

Johns apparently wants to take on an assistant coaching role in the NRL before moving to head coaching.

 

[Google News]

Johns out of race as Knights mentor

Johns out of race as Knights mentorThe AustralianAlthough he has kept a low profile since being named in a report on ABC's Four Corners as being part of a group-sex scandal while playing for Cronulla seven ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25822291-2722,00.html&usg=AFQjCNFnxLX5KU8ideq9Xf3ymbwgIAA8Dw

Matthew Johns out of race as Knights mentor
Brent Read
July 23, 2009

MATTHEW Johns will not be the next coach of Newcastle.

Johns, out of the game since being implicated this year in a sex scandal dating back to 2002, notified the Knights yesterday that he did not want to be considered for the position.

It caps a remarkable three days in which Johns yoyoed between contender and non-contender to replace Brian Smith, who will join the Sydney Roosters next season.

Although considered an outsider for the position -- Knights assistant coach Rick Stone is the favourite -- Johns' management initially indicated he would be open to all opportunities.

However, his manager John Fordham contacted Newcastle chief executive Steve Burraston yesterday morning to inform him Johns was not ready to coach. Although he has been on the staff at Melbourne and the Sydney Roosters on a part-time basis, Johns indicated he wanted to get more experience before putting his hand up to lead an NRL side.

"We informed the Newcastle Knights CEO (Steve Burraston) this morning that while coaching has always interested Matthew Johns he has decided, at this stage, that he needs to have more miles under his belt before considering a coaching career," Fordham said.

Johns' decision saves the Knights from a potential headache. Although he has kept a low profile since being named in a report on ABC's Four Corners as being part of a group-sex scandal while playing for Cronulla seven years ago, Johns remains a much-loved figure in Newcastle.

During a nine-year career at the club, he played 176 games and featured in its historic 1997 grand final win. Having helped turn players such as Cooper Cronk into NRL stars, he is widely regarded as a coach in waiting.

The wait will go on, however, given yesterday's decision. Instead, the Knights are likely to go with another rookie first-grade coach. In terms of a replacement for Smith, Newcastle is spoilt for choice.

As well as Stone, Melbourne pair Michael Maguire and Stephen Kearney have been linked with the position. While Stone is considered the frontrunner, Maguire -- long touted as one of the game's emerging coaching gurus -- is believed to have support within the Knights.

Aiding his cause is the fact he has worked with several Newcastle players in recent seasons through his work with the Country Origin side, where he has been an assistant to Laurie Daley.

Over the past two years he has been involved with James McManus, Ben Cross and Jarrod Mullen. He is also armed with a glowing endorsement from Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy, who touted Maguire as long overdue for a first-grade job.

While Newcastle is scouring the NRL for a coach, Roosters veteran Anthony Minichiello yesterday said Brian Smith would bring some discipline to the Roosters next season.

Minichiello, who announced at a sponsor's function on Tuesday night that he was staying at the club next season, warned players had to jump on board.

"I think he's a disciplinarian and he likes to discipline the team and I think we need a bit of that, so that should be good," Minichiello said.

Meanwhile, the Storm has signed St George Illawarra and New Zealand international Chase Stanley for next season. The 2007 premier has also secured Cronulla's Atelea Vea on a two-year deal.

"We think both players can add something to our playing list for next year and beyond," Bellamy said. "We're confident that if they continue to work hard on their games they will keep getting better as footballers down here in Melbourne."

Stanley has played four NRL games for the Dragons this season and also played two Tests for New Zealand. He shapes as an outside back option for Bellamy in 2010 following the loss of Will Chambers and Joseph Tomane.

 

[Google News]

Knights learn from 2006 coaching bungle

Knights learn from 2006 coaching bungleNewcastle HeraldHe has played four NRL games for the Dragons in 2009. He has already played two Tests for New Zealand. Vea made his NRL debut for Cronulla in round 10 this ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/sport/rugby-league/knights-learn-from-2006-coaching-bungle/1575514.aspx&usg=AFQjCNE9DEymDCWXfEFrx-Vrxj-hMsqRWw

Knights learn from 2006 coaching bungle
BY ROBERT DILLON
23/07/2009 4:00:00 AM

KNIGHTS officials have vowed to avoid a repeat of the embarrassing scenes of 2006 as they set about recruiting their next head coach.

Newcastle are in the market for a new chief tactician after Brian Smith's surprise decision to accept a four-year deal with Sydney Roosters.

The previous time the Knights went through this process was three years ago, when management announced that Michael Hagan would not be retained and started shopping for a high-profile replacement.

In a farcical series of events that dragged out for more than a month, Newcastle approached Craig Bellamy (Melbourne), Tim Sheens (Wests Tigers) and Graham Murray (North Queensland) and were knocked back.

They also considered the merits of then Newcastle assistant coach David Fairleigh and much-travelled Peter Sharp before formally tabling a three-year deal to Matthew Elliott, who was then at Canberra.

Elliott, reportedly miffed that the Knights had interrupted negotiations to speak to Sheens, instead signed with Penrith.

The Steven Bradbury of the field was Smith, who when he was finally contacted by then Knights chief executive Ken Conway famously replied: "Why the hell did you take so long . . . I was waiting for you to ring me."

Most of the major players from 2006, including Conway and former chairman Mike Tyler, are no longer with the Knights.

The club's incumbent CEO, Steve Burraston, did not want to be critical of his predecessors.

But he was confident that finding a new coach for next season would be conducted more clinically than it was three years ago.

"I can't comment on 2006, because I wasn't with the club at the time, but certainly at this juncture we're very clear," Burraston said.

"With Brian Smith staying on, and with a very strong candidate in [assistant coach] Rick Stone, we're very comfortable with where we are.

"The fact is that we've got most of our players signed for next season, so we're not in a position where we have to make a rushed decision to get a coach in now.

"We just need a coach to come in and take over the roster we've already got in place . . . we're under no pressure."

Unlike in 2006, Burraston said the Knights would not be head-hunting potential coaches.

"We will not be chasing anyone," Burraston said.

"We've had some very strong applications from experienced NRL coaches and also from a couple of well-thought-of assistant coaches.

"We already have Rick Stone there, who is a very strong candidate, so we won't be chasing anyone and we're happy with the applications we have already received."

Newcastle officials have given themselves until the end of August to make a decision.

It is understood there have already been expressions of interest from former NRL coaches Steve Folkes, Graham Murray and Graham Lowe and assistant coaches Shane Flanagan (Cronulla) and Michael Maguire (Melbourne).

"Myself and [strategic development manager] Keith Onslow will assemble a short list of applicants, and the board will then make a decision on who they would like me to open negotiations with," Burraston said.

"There may be two or three that we bring to the table, it may be just one person."

One factor that undoubtedly counted against Knights officials in 2006 was that the club had been struggling for several seasons and collected the wooden spoon in 2005.

Burraston said most coaches would be attracted by the prospect of inheriting Smith's rebuilt squad.

"I think coaching Newcastle is a really good gig," Burraston said.

"It's seen as a really good footy town, a team that usually performs pretty well and has great local support and great local juniors.

"It obviously also offers the coach a great lifestyle and place to live.

"There is a lot of attractiveness about coaching in Newcastle."

 

[Google News]

PETER STERLING: Knights won't drop the ball

PETER STERLING: Knights won't drop the ballNewcastle HeraldThe one word that is rarely used in the same sentence as NRL first grade coach is security. The Knights' decision to offer just a one-year extension was ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/sport/rugby-league/peter-sterling-knights-wont-drop-the-ball/1575511.aspx&usg=AFQjCNERWILfegfQoDX2ckln4xJFvi6Xyw

PETER STERLING: Knights won't drop the ball
23/07/2009 4:00:00 AM

WHEN the Newcastle players returned to training this week after a freshen-up bye weekend, nothing would have changed.

The program in preparation for Manly would have been in place, their focus and responsibilities as per usual and the processes in making sure they are physically and mentally ready for Friday night well established.

The relationship with the coach would also have been no different.

There are those looking from the outside in who would say that it is impossible for there to be no disruption following the news of Brian Smith's end of season departure.

While there's no doubt that the players would have been shocked and in the majority of cases disappointed, for them it would undoubtedly be business as usual.

I say this with certainty because I've experienced the relationship that exists between players and coach.

No matter how well a footballer gets on with the man guiding the team's fortunes, it is never a close friendship. Neither should it be, with the coach in the position of making career-defining decisions concerning every individual. Decisions that can be positive as well as unfavourable.

It doesn't serve the player or the coach to become too close because professionally it will pose problems.

I enjoyed a marvellous relationship with the great Jack Gibson but I always knew where the line in the sand existed.

It was enough to know that he wanted me to be the best I could be and would help to the best of his ability in that pursuit.

I also knew that if my form was down, any relationship wouldn't and shouldn't have saved me from reserve grade. A complete loss of form could even see a change in clubs become a possibility.

Players and coaches generally enjoy each other's company because they are working towards a common goal in an environment that they love being a part of. However, while working closely together, it is never a case of best friends. It's business. The other thing that would have seen this week continue as usual is that players live in the moment.

It is about getting ready for the next assignment and not looking too far down the track. This is where the cliche of "one game at a time" really exists.

Players aren't thinking about who they'll face in a month, finals football or even grand finals. They definitely aren't looking at next season which may as well be an eternity away.

If they are under contract and know that they will be a Newcastle Knight in 2010, then they will deal with a different situation when the need arises. Business as usual.

Upon hearing the background as to why Brian made the decision to take over the Roosters, any surprise turned to understanding.

The one word that is rarely used in the same sentence as NRL first grade coach is security.

The Knights' decision to offer just a one-year extension was sound. The attraction of a four-year deal elsewhere for a career coach equally so. As expected the fallout has come in the form of criticism, seemingly from three different areas.

We can put a line straight through the first. The usual media hacks were quick to swoop using terms such as traitor and disloyal their assessment completely formed on the back of a long-running agenda.

Brian Smith could be Mother Teresa and they would still find fault.

Secondly, discarded players have had their say after being chased up. Predictably they also have been critical but it is hard to pay heed to opinions that carry such bias.

While I generally feel for some of these individuals, in retrospect from the Knights' point of view, tough decisions have been justified.

Really, the only two players who have kicked on elsewhere have been Josh Perry and Luke Walsh and I'm sure the Knights are delighted for both.

Luke has grabbed his opportunity at Penrith with two hands.

Such an opportunity may not have arisen in Newcastle considering the strong competition for the No.7 jersey.

Josh has played both Origin and Test football, as well as winning a premiership with Manly. I wrote at the time that the big prop needed a change to get out of his comfort zone. I don't believe he'd have achieved such success without the shake-up.

The third and most disappointing source of criticism has come from some Newcastle fans. They too have mentioned disloyalty and a bailing out before the job is done.

While they pay their money to enter EnergyAustralia Stadium and have every right to voice their opinion, I find it hard to reconcile their bones of contention.

When Brian Smith took over the Knights in 2007, they were wooden spooners from '05 and had qualified through to the second week of the finals in '06 on the back of Andrew Johns.

It was obvious that changes for the future needed to be implemented, especially with the imminent departures of both Johns and Danny Buderus.

At the end of round 19 in 2009, Newcastle sit fifth on the ladder, will play finals football from a lofty position and are regarded as true premiership contenders.

Where does the getting out before the job is done fit in?

How could there possibly be a call to remove Smith at this time and definitely derail such a promising campaign?

I'm sure that a number of the vocal critics are those who were the loudest when Brian took over and made changes. Ones not based on popularity.

The silence from these critics in the interim was deafening.

The Newcastle Knights might not win the premiership this season and if that is seen by some as a failure, then 14 other coaches will also have failed.

Surely the most important thing for a club supporter is to be able to cheer for a team that on a weekly basis is more than competitive, play an attractive brand of football, are well prepared and obviously "put in" each and every match. A team to be proud of.

Well from what I've seen of Newcastle this season, they are more than competitive, play an attractive brand of football, are well prepared and obviously "put in".

Definitely a team to be proud of.

 

[Google News]

Smith out, Stone in – Knights directors consider quick move on ...

Smith out, Stone in – Knights directors consider quick move on ...League HQWith Melbourne assistant coach Michael Maguire, Cronulla and NSW assistant Shane Flanagan and former Bulldogs premiership-winning mentor Steve Folkes among ...and more »

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.leaguehq.com.au/news/lhqnews/smith-out-stone-in-150-knights-directors-consider-quick-move-oncoaching-job/2009/08/03/1249152559124.html&usg=AFQjCNFeQYjd8-N1woQKdsAsZwnjB8stgA

Smith out, Stone in – Knights directors consider quick move on coaching job
Brad Walter
August 4, 2009

DEPARTING Newcastle coach Brian Smith might be asked to step aside immediately or give greater control of the team to assistant Rick Stone at a meeting of the Knights board tomorrow night.

With Stone having already been pencilled in to take over next season when Smith leaves for Sydney Roosters, it is possible he will be immediately appointed to the job.

Brisbane’s on-field woes under new coach Ivan Henjak, who was assistant to Wayne Bennett before he quit to join St George Illawarra, have given some Knights directors cause for concern and they are open to the idea of giving Stone greater responsibility for the remainder of the season.

It is even possible that he could be installed as a caretaker to help the board assess whether he is the right man for the job in the long term.

With the Knights’ 2010 roster virtually decided, directors would like to be sure that Stone can get the best out of the players he will have at his disposal if he is given charge. The Herald was told that all options were likely to be discussed at the board meeting, which was due to decide on the process for appointing a new coach after Smith’s shock decision to leave a year before his contract expires to accept a four-year deal with the Roosters.

Among the possibilities is that he will be told to stand down immediately and Stone appointed to take over. Smith could also be asked to take a back seat to give Stone more responsibility with a view to him being given the job next season.

Stone, who is in his fourth season at the Knights, has a 20-year coaching resume, including three Queensland Cup premierships in 13 seasons with Burleigh. He is understood to have unanimous support among the nine directors on the Knights board and also from chief executive Steve Burraston.

Initially, it was intended that Smith would remain in charge until the end of the season but the fact the Knights have lost their two games since his departure was announced and are now teetering on the brink of dropping out of the top eight has some directors considering installing Stone for the rest of the season.

With Melbourne assistant coach Michael Maguire, Cronulla and NSW assistant Shane Flanagan and former Bulldogs premiership-winning mentor Steve Folkes among the applicants for the job, there is a view that Stone should be given the opportunity to show why he deserves the job before such highly-credentialled candidates are ruled out.

The board could also decide to approach other potential coaches, such as Wests Tigers mentor Tim Sheens, or advertise for more applicants before making a final decision at another meeting on August 26.

Burraston said last night that he had not been approached by any directors about replacing Smith immediately. ‘‘It’s a scheduled board meeting and will kick off proceedings for replacement - no other changes,’’ he said.

But even if no decision is made at tomorrow night’s meeting, Smith’s tenure is sure to come under further scrutiny should the Knights lose again to Parramatta on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Sydney Roosters chief executive Steve Noyce was yesterday forced to deny that the club was trying to convince Isaac de Gois to follow Smith to Sydney next season after a caller to SkY Sports Radio’s Big Sports Breakfast reported seeing him at the Newcastle hooker’s house on Saturday.

Noyce, the former Wests Tigers chief executive, explained that he was with the joint venture club’s recruitment manager Warren McDonnell, who was picking up some tickets for the Roosters-Knights match from his son, Shannon, the Newcastle fullback who shares a house with de Gois.

In other news, Dragons five-eighth Jamie Soward will be free to play against Penrith on Friday night if he takes the early plea to a dangerous contact charge after kicking Melbourne’s Greg Inglis.

South Sydney halfback Chris Sandow (striking) and Broncos prop David Taylor (dangerous throw) will also be free to play this weekend, while no action was taken against Brisbane’s Justin Hodges after he was cautioned by referee Jason Robinson for comments made to the official during Saturday night’s 56-0 hammering by Canberra.