The South Sydney Rabbitohs have announced significant changes to their football department as they prepare for the 2026 season. This strategic overhaul includes key promotions and new appointments aimed at enhancing the team’s performance and player development.
Jack Milligan, who has served as the Club’s NRL Strength and Conditioning Coach for the past six seasons, has been promoted to High Performance Manager. He replaces Trent Elkin, who stepped down at the end of the 2025 season. Meanwhile, Corey Bocking will step into Milligan’s former role as Head of Strength, Conditioning, and Sports Science. Bocking joins the Rabbitohs from the Penrith Panthers, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his tenure as the NRL Physical Preparation Lead.
New Faces and Roles in the Rabbitohs’ Lineup
Corey Bocking’s extensive background includes work with the NSW Waratahs rugby union team, the West Indies cricket team, and Australian tennis. His appointment is part of a broader strategy to integrate diverse sports science expertise into the Rabbitohs’ operations. Sam Pervan will assume the role of NRL Strength and Conditioning Coach, ensuring continuity in the department.
Brendan Fahrner, the current Head of Sports Science, will conclude his time with the Rabbitohs at the end of 2025, citing family commitments as his reason for relocating to Victoria. His departure marks another significant transition within the team.
Strengthening the Medical and Support Staff
Davis Theobold has been appointed as the NRL Senior Physiotherapist, joining from the St George Illawarra Dragons where he served as Head of Rehabilitation and Head Physiotherapist for six seasons. Theobold replaces Vicki Locke, who has concluded her tenure with the Rabbitohs.
In addition, Brian Stow returns to the Rabbitohs as Football Logistics and Facilities Manager after a stint with Hull Kingston Rovers in the UK. Kyle Furner will transition into the Operations, Facilities, and Pathways Support Officer role, while also joining the Club’s pathways coaching staff.
Continuity Amidst Change
Despite these changes, several key figures will continue in their roles, providing stability and continuity. Head Coach Wayne Bennett, along with his team of assistant coaches and support staff, remains committed to leading the Rabbitohs to success. This includes NRL Assistant Coaches Ben Hornby and Steve Antonelli, Development Coach John Sutton, and Head of Recruitment and Retention Mark Ellison, among others.
“We would like to thank those staff members that have departed from our Club at the end of the season. They all made valuable contributions to our Football Department and we wish them the best of luck in the future,” Rabbitohs CEO, Blake Solly, said.
Solly also expressed confidence in the new appointments and the existing team, emphasizing the Club’s goal to return to the top four in the NRL standings and to strengthen their player pathways.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
As the Rabbitohs gear up for the 2026 season, the focus remains on building a competitive team and nurturing future talent. The players are set to return to training in early November, marking the beginning of their preparation for the upcoming premiership campaign.
“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 added.
The strategic changes within the Rabbitohs’ football department underscore the Club’s commitment to excellence and their ambition to reclaim a prominent position in the NRL. As the new season approaches, the Rabbitohs are poised for a fresh start with a renewed focus on performance and development.
