As broken by NRL News over a week ago, Wayne Bennett today officially confirmed his exit from the Brisbane Broncos at the end of 2008. The father of NRL in Brisbane and greater Queensland – the legend after 21 seasons calls it a day.
Bennett used his usual media tactics in his latest announcement, giving away as little as possible as to his future and where he may coach.
Interestingly, Bennett confirmed he is still interested in coaching and it seems Sydney may not be totally out of the question. With UK based Daniel Anderson confirming his preference for a Sydney based NRL role, we could see some changes for next season. Certainly the likes of Nathan Brown, Brian Smith and Matt Elliott would be sleeping a little less easy after the past 24 hours.
Love or hate Wayne Bennett – his record at the Broncos is simply stunning. Not only has he brought the club 6 titles in their short history. Bennett is undefeated as a coach in every single Grand Final appearance. Only Tim Sheens shares such a long and experienced CV at the highest level of NRL.
Someone of this calibre shouldn’t be out of a coaching job for too long.