Barrett takes the next step in his coaching future

It was not that long ago that Trent Barrett retired from the NRL as a player, but in the space of just 2 years, he is fast gaining a strong rapport in the coaching world – and it is set to be strengthened, with the former NRL halfback named as the new Penrith Assistant coach, for 2 seasons.

It was back in July following a talk to the club's junior halves academy, that impressed Penrith General Manager Phil Gould, as Barrett will work with the Panthers halves, all whilst juggling his commitments to the NSW Country team as coach, and the NSW Blues side, also as an assistant.

“I'm excited by it, and after spending a bit of time out there today, there are some exciting times ahead for Penrith in the next few years,” Barrett said last night.

“I would

like to coach eventually, but I'm under no illusions that I still have a lot to learn.

“That's one of the main reasons of going out there. To have Gus there, and also after what Ivan did with the Warriors and the hard calls he's made at Penrith – I can learn from that.”

At one stage, Barrett was linked to an assistant's role at the Parramatta Eels under their new coach Ricky Stuart, but that did not eventuate, as Barrett continues to build his coaching profile.

“He will be initially working with our high performance manager Matt Cameron developing our internal and external playmaker academies,” Gould said.

“He will also assist Ivan Cleary and NYC coach Garth Brennan in the development of the club's halves.”

“He was extremely impressive as guest coach at our halves academy this year. We welcome the opportunity to bring him into our staff.”