A while back, many were wondering if a contract extension for Paul McGregor was the right move, as fans questioned his experience and his ability to get the St George Illawarra Dragons players to perform.
Fast forward to 2017 and in what has been a complete reversal of form, the Dragons are flying high and on the back of that form, the club has decided to extend the contract of Paul McGregor until the end of the 2019 season.
The history, success and culture of the club, were big reasons behind McGregor’s decision to stay.
“I’m very honoured and thankful to be given the opportunity to continue coaching at this great club, a club that means so much to me personally,” McGregor said.
“This is a very proud club, rich in history and tradition with a big passionate member and supporter base and I feel very privileged and grateful to have been afforded this opportunity.
With a new deal now sorted, McGregor’s primary focus is the 2017 season where the Dragons are keenly poised to hold down a top four spot.
“Whilst the contract extension is nice for me and my family, it hasn’t and won’t shift my focus from the current 2017 season,” McGregor continued.
“I’ve learnt a lot over these past few years and will continue to develop and do everything I can bring sustained success to this Club.”
As is the case with any coach, a player grows and develops into the role and with McGregor now past that ‘infancy’ stage and developing into solid coach, the Dragons knew it was a good time to extend his deal based on that development and the club’s form.
“Paul has proven that he is adaptable, he is determined and is always looking to improve which is exactly what he expects of his players, and these are key reasons as to why he has earned this contract extension,”said Dragons Chairman, Brian Johnston.
“He is very much a team and club-first person, and a man who certainly has his priorities right in life and football.
“The board is very pleased with how this season has been progressing so far and are confident in the future under his direction as Head Coach.”