Former first grader Kurt Wrigley has joined the St George Illawarra Dragons coaching staff.
Wrigley, 34, will join Dragons head coach Nathan Brown and will start his new role as an assistant NRL coach next week alongside David Barnhill and Max Ninness.
Previously, Wrigley was assistant coach to the Adelaide Rams in 1998. Between 1999 and 2003, he linked up with the Sharks as Development Manager and part-time lower grade coach, gaining experience through all the grades from 16s to Premier League in 2003.
A former goal kicking utility back, Wrigley, made 21 appearances with the Sharks between 1992-1994. Wrigley also played five first grade games with St George in 1995 before before seeing out his playing career with Adelaide where he made 15 appearances in 1997.
Most recently, Wrigley has been working as assistant Sharks coach with Stuart Raper in Chris Andersons absence.
This is a great opportunity for my future development as a coach, Wrigley said. I have been juggling coaching with development work for some time, so I am looking forward to the challenge of full-time coaching and playing an integral role at the Dragons.
Brown said the Dragons coaching staff were very excited to have Wrigley on board.
Hes worked under a lot of good coaches like Rod Reddy, Dean Lance, John Lang and Chris Anderson, Brown said. He has a great knowledge of football and is also a good kicking coach.
Its understood that Wrigley's appointment with the Dragons will fill the void created by the changed role of Laurie Daley. The Dragons announced earlier this week that due to increased FOX and family commitments, Daley would not be involved in coaching on a daily basis.
In 2004, Daley will remain as a consultant to coaching and business development, providing him and the Dragons with more flexibility.
- Leagueunlimited.com and SOTV
