The South Sydney Rabbitohs have announced significant changes to their Football department as they gear up for the 2026 season. This strategic overhaul aims to bolster the team’s performance and strengthen their pathway systems.
Jack Milligan has been elevated to the role of High Performance Manager after serving as the Club’s NRL Strength and Conditioning Coach for six seasons. He replaces Trent Elkin, who stepped down at the end of the 2025 season. Filling Milligan’s previous position is Corey Bocking, who joins from the Penrith Panthers where he led the NRL Physical Preparation for four years. Bocking brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the NSW Waratahs rugby union team, the West Indies cricket team, and Australian tennis.
Key Appointments and Departures
Sam Pervan will step into the NRL Strength and Conditioning Coach role, while Brendan Fahrner, the Head of Sports Science, will depart at the end of 2025 to return to Victoria for family reasons. Davis Theobold joins the Rabbitohs as the NRL Senior Physiotherapist, transitioning from the St George Illawarra Dragons where he was the Head of Rehabilitation and Head Physiotherapist. Theobold replaces Vicki Locke, who has concluded her tenure with the team.
Brian Stow returns to the Rabbitohs as the Football Logistics and Facilities Manager after a period with Hull Kingston Rovers in the UK. Kyle Furner will transition into the Operations, Facilities and Pathways Support Officer role and join the Club’s pathways coaching staff.
Continuity and Stability
Despite these changes, many familiar faces will remain in their roles, providing continuity and stability. Head Coach Wayne Bennett, along with NRL Assistant Coaches Ben Hornby and Steve Antonelli, will continue to guide the team. Other key figures like Development Coach John Sutton and Head of Recruitment and Retention Mark Ellison will also stay on board.
According to Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly, the Club is committed to maintaining a strong leadership core.
“We have the utmost confidence in our football department coaches and staff, led by Wayne (Bennett), to return the Club to the right end of the competition ladder, and to produce future first graders through our pathways systems,” Solly stated.
Strategic Vision for the Future
The Rabbitohs’ strategic vision includes not only a return to the top four but also a robust development pathway for future talent. Solly emphasized the importance of these changes in achieving long-term success.
“We would like to congratulate those staff members that have earned promotions, as well as those who are new to our Club, as we chart a path back towards the top four for our NRL squad,” he added.
As the Club looks forward to the 2026 season, preparations are already underway. Players are set to return to training in early November, with a focus on their premiership campaign. The Rabbitohs aim to leverage the expertise of their revamped Football department to enhance their competitive edge.
The announcement comes as the Rabbitohs seek to build on their historical successes while adapting to the evolving landscape of professional rugby league. With a blend of experienced leadership and fresh talent, the Club is poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season.
