Bond’s shock coach switch
BOND University have confirmed a shock mid-season rugby coaching switch that will see club favourite Grant Anderson return to the helm after Brad Harris accepted an opportunity overseas.
Harris started as Bull Sharks head coach this season after helping guide the Fijian Drua to the 2018 National Rugby Championship title.
When Fiji came calling recently with an expanded role as technical advisor for the Drua and the Fijian Latui in Rapid Rugby – plus other duties including with the national under-20 squad – it proved too good for Harris to knock back.
He will move to Fiji on Sunday.
“I had a decision to make between staying at Bond in a part-time capacity or taking a full-item role which is progressing my career but also provides my family with some financial security and stability,” he said.
Harris told players on Monday of his decision.
“Certainly from all of the boys I spoke to, they understand the opportunity that I have financially and professionally but there is natural disappointment around how quick it has happened and the fact that I won’t be here for the season, which I understand,” he said.
Bond are currently eighth on the Queensland Premier Rugby ladder with a 1-5 record.
Anderson steps up to the head role he held in 2018 before shuffling back to the assistant coach position upon Harris’ arrival. He will be assisted by Ray Thomas.
Club officials believe the familiarity surrounding Anderson and Thomas will make for a relatively seamless transition and Harris backed the man who is now both his predecessor and successor to take the team forward.
“He’s a good coach and I wish him all the best,” he said of Anderson.
Harris is the club’s second key figure to take their career abroad this year after former director of rugby Sean Hedger moved to Japan.