Bulls shake things up for 2018 charge
A NEW-LOOK Barron Trinity Bulls will launch their premiership defence next month with key personnel assuming new roles in 2018 for the powerhouse FNQ Rugby club.
Head coach David Brooks has stepped down but will return to the playing field while longtime president Chris Reilly has been replaced by life member Damien Swain.
Brooks, 32, who last pulled on the boots in 2013, will serve as an assistant coach to Wayne Meredith under the reshuffle.
“The missus says I need to get health insurance but there’s no real concern,” Brooks said, laughing, yesterday. “Once I decide I’m going to do something, I usually just make it happen.
“My shoulder’s come good and I feel like I can give more to the club by playing and let Mero take the reins.
“It’s a good time to move things around and keep boys on their toes.
“With the board, we’ve had a full overhaul from last season, too.
“It’ll be a big test for the club off the field to fill their shoes and do as good as they did. Our executive has been outstanding throughout my time.”
The Bulls will be missing at least three players from the grand final team that beat Southside Crusaders 31-19 last year, with fly-half Ethan Thompson arguably the biggest loss.
Try-scoring machine Kele Degei, who missed last year’s grand final due to work, is expected to return at some stage this season. The Bulls play a practice match against Northward Old Boys in Townsville on Saturday, February 24.