The St George Illawarra Dragons have officially unveiled their coaching and football staff lineup for the 2025 NRL season, marking a significant step in their quest to reach the NRL Finals series after several challenging years. The announcement highlights Shane Flanagan’s continued leadership as head coach, supported by returning assistant coaches Dean Young and Ryan Carr.
In a bid to strengthen their on-field performance and strategic planning, the Dragons have also promoted Wille Talau to head coach of the NSW Cup team, while Shane Millard takes on the role of Jersey Flegg Cup coach. These appointments are part of a broader strategy to bolster the club’s competitive edge and player development pathways.
Strategic Appointments to Drive Success
The Dragons’ revamped coaching staff reflects a commitment to both immediate success and long-term development. Shane Flanagan, who is entering his second season with the club, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record. His leadership is complemented by Dean Young and Ryan Carr, both of whom have deep ties to the club and bring unique insights into the team’s dynamics.
Meanwhile, Wille Talau’s promotion to the NSW Cup head coach is a testament to his impactful contributions and coaching acumen. Shane Millard’s appointment as the Jersey Flegg Cup coach underscores the club’s focus on nurturing young talent through structured and effective training programs.
Comprehensive Coaching and Support Staff
The Dragons’ full coaching and support staff for the 2025 season is as follows:
- General Manager of Football: Ben Haran
- NRL Head Coach: Shane Flanagan
- NRL Senior Assistant Coach: Dean Young
- NRL Assistant Coach: Ryan Carr
- Head of Female Football: Samantha Bremner
- NRLW Head Coach and Pathways Coaching Coordinator: Nathan Cross
- Knock-On Effect NSW Cup Coach: Willie Talau
- Recruitment and Pathways Manager and Jersey Flegg Cup Coach: Shane Millard
- High Performance Manager: Daniel Lawson
- Performance Consultant: Andrew Gray
- Strength and Power Coach: Nathan Spencer
- Speed and Conditioning Coach: Kelly Penfold
- Club Contact and Pathways Performance Coach: James Moran
- Pathways Recruitment Officer: Ian Millward
- Chief Medical Officer: Dr Tom Carrigan
- NRL Physiotherapist (Rehab): Davis Theobald
- NRL Physiotherapist (Medical): John Callaghan
- Performance and Recruitment Analyst: Gabe Cameron
- Performance/Football Operations Manager: Travis Roche
- NRLW Football Manager: Steve Nielsen
- NSWRL Programs and Analytics Coordinator: Jason Streat
- Sport Science Coordinator: Michael Baldock
- Wellbeing and Facility Manager: Scott Stewart
- Education and Wellbeing Manager: Chelsea Tout
- Wellbeing Coordinator: Holly Scheeringa
- NRL Gear Steward: Mick Lavorato
- Football Assistant: Darren Watt
- Dietician: Nicola Jaffrey
- Dragons Academy Coach and Steelers SG Ball Coach: Shaun Timmins
- Dragons Academy Coach and Dragons SG Ball Coach: Darren Nicholls
Historical Context and Future Prospects
The announcement comes as the Dragons seek to reclaim their status as a formidable force in the NRL. Historically, the club has experienced both triumphs and trials, with their last premiership victory in 2010. Since then, the Dragons have faced fluctuating fortunes, often falling short of the finals. This comprehensive restructuring of the coaching and support staff aims to reverse that trend.
According to experts, the key to the Dragons’ success will lie in their ability to integrate new strategies and foster a culture of resilience and adaptability. The inclusion of roles focused on performance analysis and player wellbeing indicates a holistic approach to player development and team cohesion.
“The Dragons’ new coaching lineup is a strategic blend of experience and innovation, designed to elevate the team’s performance on all fronts,” said a leading NRL analyst.
Looking ahead, the Dragons are poised to leverage their revamped coaching structure to not only reach the finals but to establish a sustainable model for success. With a focus on both immediate results and long-term growth, the club’s leadership is optimistic about the future.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes translate into on-field performance. The Dragons’ journey to reclaim their place among the NRL’s elite is one that promises to be both challenging and exciting.
