Price is right for Warrington
Warrington have appointed Australian Steve Price as their new head coach on a two-year contract.
The 40-year-old, a former St George Illawarra head coach who has been assistant with Cronulla for the last three years, succeeds Tony Smith who brought his nine-year reign to a close at the end of the season.
“We firmly believe that in Steve Price we have found the right man to bring success to Warrington Wolves,” said chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick.
A general view of the stadium before the 2013 World Cup match at the Halliwell Jones Stadium
It's Official!
Steve Price is appointed as new head coach of the Wire on a 2-year deal ⬇https://t.co/oCDVy4xG6k pic.twitter.com/7jn6XuCKzU — Warrington Wolves (@wolvesrl) October 6, 2017
Price was right-hand man to Shane Flanagan when the Sharks won the 2016 NRL Premiership and lost to Wigan in the World Club Challenge earlier this year.
He also guided the Dragons to victory over the Warriors in the 2011 World Club Challenge at the DW Stadium.
Price was standing in at the time for Wayne Bennett, who had flown back to Australia for personal reasons, and was promoted to the role of head coach on Bennett’s recommendation at the end of 2012.
At 34, he was one of the youngest head coaches in NRL history but two years later moved to Cronulla.
Fitzpatrick, who visited Australia on a scouting mission to unearth Smith’s successor, added: “As a result of his involvement in two NRL Grand Final winning clubs, Steve fully understands what is required to deliver that success.
“He is regarded as having a major influence on the Sharks’ 2016 Grand Final win and he is highly respected by all of their players.
“During our detailed discussions, Steve clearly demonstrated an exceptional understanding of the game in both attack and defence, and he has a great awareness of Super League.
CLUB NEWS: Richard Agar released from the Wire after job offer in the NRL ⬇https://t.co/X0OHFDzILd pic.twitter.com/O0C0ocI5ej — Warrington Wolves (@wolvesrl) October 5, 2017
“Steve has a reputation for attention to detail when it comes to his team’s preparation and performance, and he is acutely aware of the high expectations we have here at Warrington.”
Price said: “I’m excited to be heading to the UK and being part of the Warrington Wolves for 2018.
“I’m grateful to be leading this great club with such a passionate fan base and prestigious history. I endeavour to build a tough and resilient football team, that will be attractive to watch and will enhance the Wire brand.”