What some people are failing to realise is that this isn't a personal slight on Brian or his ability.
There is no-one here that can argue the club is in better shape now than the years pre-Smith.
There is no-one here that can argue this season was a fantastic improvement over the previous two and, despite the ignominious finish, was one to remember.
I have been a Brian Smith fan for his entire tenure at Parramatta. There were moments of frustration re: tactics along the way, but he is an extremely likeable man with a keen intellect who I believe is an excellent coach and developer of players...
...But change is good.
Even if we had of won the premiership this year (and even if, God willing, we win it next year), after 10 years at the helm it would always be time for both parties (club and coach) to re-evaluate the relationship. One only has to look at the situation in Brisbane now, where Wayne Bennett (great coach that he was/is) is out of step with the way the game is being played and, similarly to Brian, is able to get a team flying high during the year but can't seem to complete the job at the business end (obviously Bennett's premiership-winning record is somewhat better than Brian's, but I feel the comparison is apt).
Enthusiasm, fresh ideas and a culture shift in a positive new direction are meritorious at football clubs, in boardrooms, in the art world or in government. Whether a new coach is introduced beyond next year, or JT is brought up alongside Smith in a tandem role, it is important that a smooth transition is made, which builds on the great leaps forward Smith has made for this club. I really want to see him get his trophy, for our sake and his, but regardless of what happens this time next year, this evaluation is coming at the right time.
Nick
