Croot: Inconsistency the key
Club owner says erratic results cost Kearney his job
Warriors chairman Rob Croot understands why many have labelled the axing of Stephen Kearney as heartless and brutal, but is adamant it was the only course of action once they decided he was not the long-term option at Mt Smart.
In his first interview since the shock move, Croot added they are in “no rush” to find Kearney’s replacement but also won’t be slow to evaluate possible options. Croot also said he would be surprised if any players return home in light of the decision.
“I appreciate that it seems really tough with Covid and the boys based in Australia to make the decision now,” said Croot, also chairman of club owners Autex. “But when the decision is made at the senior levels of the organisation — and I am talking about myself, Mark [Robinson] and Cameron [George] — we’re not the sort of people to have made the decision and sit on it and wait for what might feel like the right time. There is never going to be the right time.
“We made it fairly clear, even publicly, of our expectations of performance when we took over [as sole owners] at the end of last season. We expected a change and to move forward. We haven’t seen that consistency and we have called it.”
“[Now] it allows us to go to market and choose the best person to drive the change we are looking for.
“The timing also allows the new coach to be involved in recruitment for the 2021 season, which is critical.”
Croot said there had been concerns with form fluctuations leading into last Friday night, and the subsequent 40-12 loss to the Rabbitohs was the impetus for a phone conference on Saturday morning between Croot, Robinson and George.
Later that same morning, Croot and George called Kearney, advising him of their decision.
Croot said the unique scenario presented by Covid-19 had been taken into account, but ultimately performance was the final measure.
“Stephen and the team have been tremendous in their spirit and resilience in standing up and dealing with that, and relocating to Australia,” said Croot. “It’s been absolutely massive and a huge burden on them. But we still have to see consistency and we haven’t had that consistency this year and last year.”
Numerous commentators have labelled the move brutal and callous and Croot says the club hierarchy will take such flak “on the chin”.
“I know it seems heartless but there is never a good time for something like this,” said Croot. “What you need to do is be honest and up front with the people involved.”
“I know there has been speculation that we have had people lined up in the background and I can tell you categorically there have been no conversations with anyone about the future coach of the Warriors.
“From the outside looking in, it looks ruthless in the timing, but what’s the alternative? Sitting on a decision until he gets home, with him stuck in Australia, knowing [ourselves that] we have made a decision?
[That] doesn’t sit comfortably with me. I would rather call it and be honest and transparent about it.”
There has been conjecture in Australian media that some players, especially those who have progressed through the grades with Kearney, may be too distraught to continue but Croot hoses down that speculation.
“I’d be pretty surprised,” said Croot. “I understand that being remote from this is particularly difficult. Players have their own personal choices, and if some of them feel distressed enough to make decisions about their future, then that is up to them.
“But there is also an opportunity here, and that is what we have told Todd [Payten]. We are certainly not giving up on the season, I can assure you of that, but we have been careful in talking to Todd.
“We have no expectations apart from pride. Get the team together and show us what you are capable of.”
Croot said the club have started the process of putting together a “wish list” and the most important criteria for the new head coach. He declined to discuss individuals but confirmed there had already been significant interest expressed.
“We are not in a rush,” said Croot. “Part of the reason for the decision making is that now it gives us that opportunity to take that breath.”
“There is no time frame we are working to but ideally we would have somebody lined up fairly quickly, so that person can have due influence over selections and signings for next year.”
Croot said Payten could be a potential contender, and he would be evaluated among the other options if he applies.
Croot finished by paying tribute to Kearney, who was in charge for 79 NRL matches and led the club back to the finals in 2018.
“Stephen is a tremendous guy and his work ethic and commitment to the club has never been in question,” said Croot.