Thursday, October 26, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Burdekin Roosters Announce Coaching Lineup For 2024 Season

In an exciting development for rugby league enthusiasts, the Burdekin Roosters have kicked off preparations for the 2024 season by unveiling their coaching team across all four grades set to compete in the RLTD.

Dan Beazley, a former captain of the Townsville Blackhawks and former Roosters player, is making a return to the club as the A Grade coach. Beazley, who decided to hang up his boots after a career that led him to France, is ready to take the helm after touring Australia in a van. Roosters president Mick Brombal had been pursuing his signature as coach since his return, and now that goal has been achieved. Beazley's wealth of experience will be invaluable for the predominantly young A Grade team.

Working alongside Beazley will be Kieran Dawes, who has already gained coaching experience this year.

The Reserve Grade will continue under the guidance of Chris Perry, who is both a long-term player and a coach. Perry's coaching prowess shone when he led the reserves to the Grand Final in 2022. Though he thought he had retired, the persistent calls from players led to his return to the coaching arena. Perry made a comeback earlier this year when he took over the Hens, proving his dedication to the Roosters.

Joining the coaching lineup is Peter Horan, a former player who once captained the A Grade in the TDRL. Horan relocated to Townsville but returned to the Burdekin this year to guide his son, coached by Ross Olsen, in the under-17 team. His passion for coaching led him to apply for the under-19 position, which he secured. Horan's experience will be a great asset to the Roosters.

The Hens will be under the tutelage of the well-known Townsville Touch coach Anita Hagarty. Hagarty brings a wealth of experience and coaching expertise to the team. She has a strong connection to the Burdekin, with her father being the former Home Hill winger and Burdekin Referee Joe Cantarella. Her son, Ethan Hagarty, was named Ayr Anzac Memorial Club A Grade Player of the Year.

To kick off the season's preparations, a meet and greet session is expected to be arranged soon, with pre-season training schedules to be finalised.

The club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 12, at 3:00 p.m. at the Ayr Anzac Club.

Daniel Beasley. Photo credit: Mendi Blackhawks

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