Appointment is just divine
A Cairns rugby team will be putting their faith in the devout guidance of an FNQ Rugby veteran in season 2018. The North Beaches Mudcrabs have turned to pastor Dan Moevao to coach the team following a disappointing season that saw the 2015 premiers win just four games and miss finals. “I’m not here to bring spiritual improvement but I am there to encourage,” he said. “If I can help foster personal development that’s great.”
A CAIRNS rugby team will be putting their faith in the devout guidance of an FNQ Rugby veteran in season 2018.
The Northern Beaches Mudcrabs have turned to pastor Dan Moevao to coach the team following a disappointing season that saw the 2015 premiers win just four games and miss finals.
Moevao, who played in Southside Crusaders’ grand final loss to Barron Trinity Bulls last month, said the shift was the logical next step in his rugby career.
“It’s about starting a new chapter,” he said.
“The family was in shock at first but they knew my passion and desire to coach.
“I’m a very loyal person but this is about building a stronger culture of rugby in the Far North. I leave Southside on good terms.
“I feel like I’m going to a club that I have my full trust in.”
The Cairns-based pastor takes over from outgoing mentor Andrew Derrington but said he wouldn’t be making wholesale changes to the team’s structure or game plan.
“This year was a lull period for the club,” he said.
“I need to build a rapport first with the players and volunteers. We need to work off that then build some momentum.
“I try to bring humility to the role. The team puts its trust in you. I’m just there to bring an outside perspective, give anything that is required and work hard.
“The club has a strong culture and a desire to work with the community and I love that.”
The Mudcrabs will move into their new Yorkeys Knob-based facilities this pre-season and are keen to start the season strongly. President Ben Leonardi said the club’s Wattle Street “Crab Pot” was the product of four years of hard work from the club’s committee and players.
“We’re on schedule to start training there in January,” he said.
“We’ve received several grants and sponsorship for the project and we’re extremely grateful.
“Dan is a really good lad and has worked very hard to build his knowledge base and you won’t find a more enthusiastic FNQ rugby person in the region.”
Despite having only finished playing this season, Moevao said he’ll resist the urge to lace the boots up next year.
“I’ll exclusively be on the sidelines,” he said. “The temptation to play is still strong but I want to expand my coaching skills.
“As a pastor, you help and guide. I’m not here to bring spiritual improvement but I am there to encourage. If I can help foster personal development that’s great.”