David Waite back in the Dragons coaching staff

Posté le 07/11/2012 07:54:05

Former Great Britain head coach David Waite has signed today a two years contract with the Catalans Dragons and will join the Laurent Frayssinous staff as the new assistant of the French coach.

“To have someone like David Waite in the coaching staff was a great opportunity I could not miss. He has coached the best teams and was one of the best head coach.”

“To be honest, I was a little bit surprised when he contacted me to apply for the assistant coach job. But he wants to focus on the game now, without dealing with all the team management responsibilities.”

“I'm very happy to welcome him in the coaching staff, he is of the best rugby league technician.  His experience and his knowledge of the game will be really valuable and I'm looking forward to work with David.” said Laurent Frayssinous.

Waite started his coaching career in Australia in 1991 at the Newcastle Knights. He then moved to Saint George in 1996, reaching two Grand Finals in 1996 and 1999 before joining the RFL as technical director in 2000.

In February 2001, he was appointed head coach and technical director of the Great Britain.

The former Australian Test winger, who worked behind the scenes with Catalans Dragons in their inaugural season in the Super League, returned to Australia at the end of the 2006 season.

“I've been involved at the start of the Catalans history and I'm excited to come back at the club.”

“I'm very happy to work with Laurent, I want to focus on the game and the individual now, I'm back on the field with the players and I'm looking forward to this experience.”

“I believe Laurent has the potential to become a great Head Coach, he worked really hard for that and I want to help him and the club to achieve the goals and to become more successful.” said David Waite.

“He was here when we started in Super League and help us to develop into a professional environment. He made a great job when he was here, recruiting Mick Potter or helping Laurent to move into the coaching staff.”

“I'm delighted to welcome him back at the club and his experience will be really precious in a so young staff.” Said Chairman Bernard Guasch.