Roosters fans would tell you that the writing was on the wall for coach Brian Smith, and the club has seen it that way, too – with the Roosters and Smith agreeing to part ways via ‘mutual consent’.
Despite being contracted for the 2013 season, and subsequently being let go a year early, Chairman Nick Politis and Chief Executive Steve Noyce were full of praise for the work that Smith did during his tenure at the club, pointing out their 2010 grand final appearance as a key moment.
“One of Brian’s greatest strengths is developing young talent and he wholeheartedly embraced our strategic plan in relation to developing talented young players and he leaves the club in an extremely strong position in this area,†said Mr Politis.
“A man of strong values, Brian embraced the club’s values – honesty, respect, self-control, pride in the Roosters jersey – and leaves behind a strong culture that will continue to grow moving forward,†he added.
Steve Noyce also had a say, farewelling the departing coach with kind words.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Brian for his valuable contribution to the Roosters over the past three years and wish him and his family well for the future.”
The board will consider the appropriate replacements for the role, and make a decision on who will assume the Head Coaching position, in the near future.