Norris keen to tackle NRL gig
TAHNEE Norris will bide her time during the inaugural women’s NRL premiership season as she searches for an opportunity to progress her coaching career.
Norris has immaculate credentials, having played for the Jillaroos before making a successful switch to coaching – she has mentored Burleigh to three successive SEQ Division One premierships.
However, she was unable to secure a women’s NRL post for later this year and instead will attend in an observing capacity at Broncos sessions, where several of her Bears players are likely to line up, including Tallisha Harden.
Norris said no vacancies existed at the moment but she was ready to showcase her abilities if given the chance.
“Obviously I would put my hand up if there was some (position) available,” she said.
“I’ve been in chats with the Broncos and I’ll go up to their training sessions and just be an observer for the moment but that is the aspiration for me, to be coaching one of those sides for the future.”
Brisbane will be mentored by ex-Jillaroos head coach Paul Dyer, with NRL premiership winners Scott Prince and Michael Hancock signed on as assistant coaches.
Daniel Lacey and Luisa Avaiki have been confirmed at the Dragons and Warriors respectively, while Indigenous Women’s All Stars coach Dean Widders has been linked to the Roosters gig.
Former Maroons hooker Jason Hetherington, meanwhile, is in charge at Queensland Origin level.
For now, Norris is looking to gain experience and add yet another piece of silverware to her CV, with the Bears rising to second on the ladder.
“I’ll just have to sit and learn at the moment and take as much in as possible and go from there,” she said.
Norris is known to be a direct communicator but, come game day, she stands on the sidelines calmly with sunglasses on, analysing the game.
“Oh, you don’t see me blowing up inside,” she laughed of her demeanour. “I try to hold it in as much as I possibly can but every now and then a few choice words come out.”
Norris has had to adjust as the women’s game has come along in leaps and bounds but she has always commanded respect, as indicated by her former teammate and current Bears player Delwyn Fraser.
“She just takes the skill set and develops,” said the 33year-old. “She is very encouraging and very knowledgeable … she deserves everything coming for her.”