The Dragons Part Ways With Paul McGregor After Weeks Of Pressure

After weeks of pressure, the Dragons have elected to “amicably” part ways with head coach Paul McGregor after Friday’s matchup against the Eels.

McGregor spoke with Dragons CEO Ryan Webb on Wednesday night ahead of a board meeting next week to discuss his future and it is understood when Webb told him that his tenure was not guaranteed next season, the coach opted to resign.

He was expected to inform his players after Thursday’s captain’s run ahead of Friday night’s clash with Parramatta at Bankwest Stadium that his time at the club was over.

Assistant coach Dean Young will take over as interim for the remainder of the season after McGregor’s final game in charge against the Eels on Friday.

“There was a lot of talking involved and we came to a decision where we are both comfortable,” Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb told the Herald.

“Hopefully this allows Paul to continue to be part of the Dragons family. He’s still going to be connected with us although he won’t be the head coach after this weekend.”

“After the game he will hand over the reigns to Dean Young for the remainder of the season. Who will coach the club from next season will be a discussion that will happen at the board meeting next Tuesday.”

The club released a statement on Thursday morning confirming McGregor’s departure.

“I wish to thank the Dragons for allowing me to be head coach over the past seven seasons as well as everyone who has been involved in my journey at this proud club,” McGregor said.

“I approached the club’s chief executive Ryan Webb earlier in the week regarding a number of matters and we eventually came to an agreement that this week will be my last as coach of the Dragons. I understand a fresh face and new voice is needed to move the club forward. I hope this decision will provide clarity to the playing group, the entire staff and our passionate Red V members and partners regarding the direction the club is headed.

“After 25 years with the Illawarra Steelers and St George Illawarra as a player, staff member, captain and coach; I viewed my positions as a series of privileges not obligations. We haven’t met performance expectations over the past 18 months, and I take acceptance of responsibility. I had the opportunity to build my team, which we did in 2017 and 2018.

“Unfortunately, we have not put that same side on the field since for a number of reasons. Dean Young and the team have a fantastic opportunity over the next six weeks to build into the 2021 campaign. Dean deserves this great opportunity to showcase his capabilities in the head coach role.”