ORANGE CYMS’ Group 10 premier league title defence starts now.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The reigning premiers have named their senior coaches for season 2014, with a strong focus on junior development.
Three-time premiership winning captain-coach Mick Sullivan retains the job in premier league, and will help out mentoring the club’s under 16s unit.
Former CYMS junior Luke Morris will return to the club to take over the reserve grade role.
Club legend Des Knight and premier league back-rower Kyran Bubb will mentor the under 18s.
Sullivan said the green and golds’ ultimate goal is another premiership, but developing local junior talent is just as important.
“I made it no secret when I came here it is about winning,” Sullivan said.
“Even after I’m gone, hopefully whoever takes over will keep our run going, but I’m still here, and I know I’m not ready for it to finish yet.
“With the salary cap in now, which is a good thing, it makes sure every club is focused on developing our juniors.
“I think we’ve done that well over the last few years with guys like Matt Penny, Riley Law and Kyran Bubb. They’re the guys that are going to create the next era of our club so hopefully they can step up again and we can add a couple more through the season.”
Sullivan said the inclusion of Morris into the coaching structure is particularly encouraging.
“Luke will be very handy, he’s a very motivated guy,” he said.
“Luke takes a lot of pride in what he does. I know what he brings in terms of dedication.”
“It’s good to be back,” Morris added.
“I see my job as helping Mick as much as I can. I’m not too sure of structures, I’ve been away for three years. I’ll just try and help out and bring some of the 18s through.
Sullivan highlighted Knight and Bubb’s role as one of the most important in the club.
“It’s about more guys getting involved and keeping our structures the same,” Sullivan explained.
“To make sure if a guy comes up from 18s to the top grade they know the plays and the way everything works.”
Knight confirmed he will be pulling on a premier league jersey again in 2014, but said he took on the coaching role with one eye on the future.
“I’ve had a bit to do with the 15s and 16s the last couple of years,” Knight said.
“I want to follow them through 18s, and I am running around again, but I’m getting to the point now where I’d like to find a home in a coaching role and help the juniors come through.”