The process took longer than many would have liked, and whilst there are conflicting opinions on whether he is the right man for the job – former Penrith Panthers, Canberra Raiders and English Super League coach Matthew Elliott, has been named coach of the New Zealand Warriors for 2 seasons.
Elliott, who is the eighth coach of the club since their inception into the competition in 1995, will assume the role immediately – with Warriors Chief Executive Wayne Scurrah excited to have Elliott on board as the club’s coach.
“We’re thrilled to secure a coach of Matthew’s calibre,†said Scurrah.
“He’s had wide experience and success with a number of clubs, initially making his mark winning titles with Bradford in the English Super League and also taking Canberra and Penrith to the NRL finals a total of five times.
“While we have spoken to a number of contenders, Matthew consistently impressed us every time we met him, with his total vision of how our football programme should be structured and run.
“Through his long association with the game as a player and especially as a coach, he appreciates as much as anyone just what’s required to achieve the standards we are striving for.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Matthew as head coach to shape our football department to enable us to become a consistent threat in the NRL. Our ultimate goal will always be to win premierships and, in Matthew, we have secured a coach not only capable of achieving this, but also with the skills and vision to build a stronger total football club.â€
Co-owner of the club Owen Glenn, had just as many positive things to say about the appointment of Elliott as coach.
“In my interview with Matthew, I was immensely impressed by the clarity of his vision for the Vodafone Warriors in the years to come. Having personally made the commitment to add substantial resources to the club, I came away very confident that he will have a hugely positive impact on our team,” said Glenn.
The Warriors second co-owner Eric Watson, was also pleased to have secured the services of Elliott as coach.
“Matthew has coached at the highest levels in both Australia and here in England and he is held in the highest regard. I’m convinced he will not only significantly improve all aspects of our performance, assisted by us providing better training resources, but he will also attract more top-level experienced people to join him,” said Watson.
For Elliott himself, it is a new role and a new challenge that is he looking forward to.
“I’m elated to take up this role with the Vodafone Warriors,†he said.
“This is not just a job. It’s a unique opportunity to harness a big organisation with the potential to deliver sustained success.
“In my meetings with Eric, Owen, Bill, Wayne and Dean, I could not help but be enthused with their determination and vision to unlock that potential and the player talent available to the club.
“I’m also hugely encouraged by the commitment the management, board and owners have made to resourcing and supporting the football operation to the highest level possible.
“This is a massive opportunity for us all and I can’t wait to get on with it.â€