The Manly Sea Eagles have officially appointed Kieran Foran as head coach for the next three seasons, after he led the Northern Beaches club on a stunning mid-season turnaround that now has them battling for a spot in the Top 4 thirteen rounds into the year.
It’s a huge call from the club, putting its future in the hands of a rookie coach, but it will not surprise many in the NRL world — the Sea Eagles have looked night and day from the opening three rounds under sacked coach Anthony Seibold and the 35-year-old who has brought the “Fozball” era to the NRL’s glamour organisations.
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Manly owner and chairman Scott Penn just arrived back in Australia last weekend after a trip to the United States, and had immediately pushed through the last of the negotiations with Foran’s team before he returned to New York.
Foran said that he was “honoured” to take up the role, and had already felt so loved and supported. “I’m truly honoured to be the head coach of a club that means so much to me,” Foran said.
“[Manly is] a club that has played a significant part in not just my footy career but my entire life. I care deeply about this club, and I want what’s best for everyone involved in it. I will do everything within my power to make sure it’s a success.
“It’s been wonderful working with this group of players over the past few months, and helping them to build belief is something I have really enjoyed.”
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“I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by some incredible staff, and they have played a significant part in the success that we’ve had so far,” the new Manly head coach said. “We’re capable of achieving great things this year, and we will continue to work hard.”
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The belief and passion he has instilled in the playing group has more than delivered on our expectations,” Penn said after the whole deal was formalised Tuesday. “Kieran’s deep connection to the club, extensive playing experience, and leadership qualities make him an outstanding choice to guide the Sea Eagles into the next chapter.”
The Sporting Base originally reported that the deal was on the verge of being done some three weeks ago, when the Sea Eagles stopped interviewing other options.
Foran next leads his Manly side into battle on Thursday, against South Sydney.
