The step up from assistant to head coach is never an easy one but that is the role that Anthony Seibold will be thrust into at the South Sydney Rabbitohs after being appointed as their new head coach for the next two seasons.
With a wealth of experience as an assistant at club and Origin level, many believe that taking the punt on Seibold as Souths coach is the best move for the club moving forward, even if some Souths fans do not think so.
Before taking over the mantle as Souths assistant, Seibold held similar roles at both the Manly Sea Eagles and the Melbourne Storm as well as head coaching roles at the Storm’s U20’s side, the Mackay Cutters, and the Queensland under 18’s side.
Rabbitohs General Manager of Football Shane Richardson believes Seibold will be a welcome addition to the role.
“Anthony has done a long apprenticeship with some of the best coaches and organizations in Rugby League and we believe he is the man to take our team to the next level,” Mr. Richardson said.
“He has a strong work ethic, a thirst for knowledge, a great relationship with all of our players, he has bought into the values and beliefs of the Rabbitohs, he has great respect for our Members, and he has earned the opportunity to lead our team into its next chapter.
“We first approached Anthony about the role yesterday morning and he jumped at the chance to guide this team.
In the end, rather than search outside the club realms, Richardson felt that it was a better decision to look from within.
“His appointment from within maintains the stability of the organization whilst also giving him an opportunity to take the leadership role and provide the change of direction the team requires,” continued Richardson.
“We believe he has all of the qualities of a long-standing, successful Head Coach in the NRL and we’re happy to be able to give him his shot at this level.”
Seibold himself is thrilled to have the opportunity and he looks forward to taking over the reigns at Souths immediately.
“To become a Head Coach at a quality NRL club has been my career goal since I got into coaching and to have this opportunity to lead the team here at South Sydney is something I’m very proud of,” Coach Seibold said.
“The Club has a strong playing roster with some of the best emerging talent, a solid leadership group, a wonderful team of coaches and support staff, and a fantastic front office.
He will work alongside David Furner who was Souths other assistant coach.
“I have great support around me, including Dave Furner who I have a close relationship with. He is a very experienced coach and that experience is invaluable to our team,” continued Seibold.
That support will enable us to put our best foot forward each week and to represent this Club and its Members with pride every time we set foot on the playing or training field, or when we’re in the community.”
Seibold was also quick to praise the efforts of the outgoing Michael Maguire who he says left the club in great shape moving forward.
“‘Madge’ (Michael Maguire) has done a great job over the past six years, he’s left the Club in fantastic shape, and I’m looking to build on his legacy. We’ll also work hard on taking the team in a new direction with the help of the support team, the coaches, and the players,” said Seibold.
“We all have a clear focus and we’ll all be heading in that direction.
“I’m really excited about what’s ahead and I can’t wait to get stuck into the job and welcome the players back to training in November.”