The nib Newcastle Knights have today confirmed several key staff announcements for the upcoming National Rugby League season.
Knights Head Coach Adam O’Brien will be supported by Senior Assistant Coach Brian McDermott and Matthew Jay will head up the High-Performance team.
McDermott is a highly regarded coach and former English Super league player, having won several major trophies and titles, including four premierships as Leeds Rhinos Head Coach, making him the most successful coach in Super League history.
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Jay brings over a decade of NRL experience to the Knights via athletic performance roles at the Cronulla Sharks and more recently the Wests Tigers.
Both new staff members will relocate to the Hunter and join the club after they complete their commitments with the Rugby League World Cup. McDermott is a part of the Fiji coaching staff and Jay heads up the New Zealand Kiwis High Performance.
Former Knights halfback Michael Dobson has commenced his role as Head of Pathways, leading the junior development and pathways programs.
Dobson finished his playing career with 285 appearances across NRL and Super League, before turning his attention to rugby league development.
The Knights have also confirmed the appointment of former Manly Assistant Coach Michael Monaghan as full-time NSW Cup and Development Coach for next season.
Monaghan will work closely with football and development staff to help produce and progress NRL players at the Knights.
Director of Football Peter Parr has worked with Head Coach Adam O’Brien to identify and recruit key individuals who fit the criteria which has been set to take the Knights forward.
“We are delighted to be able to secure four such capable people,” Parr said.
“Brian brings a wealth of experience and has already established a strong relationship with Adam.
“Matt is highly regarded in the High-performance arena, to have someone with his experience and expertise will be hugely beneficial for the club.
“As a former Knights player Michael understands the importance of the pathways systems and we look forward to his input in these vitally important programs.
“Michael Monaghan is a highly credentialled coach following on from a decorated playing career, adding further expertise and experience to our coaching staff.”
These appointments complete the Newcastle Knights full-time coaching staff for the 2023 season.
