The South Sydney Rabbitohs are excited to unveil their coaching structure and new appointments for the upcoming 2025 season, marking a significant step forward for the team.
Wayne Bennett will remain as the Head Coach for the NRL, with a contract extending at least through 2027. He will be supported by Assistant Coaches Ben Hornby and Steve Antonelli. Hornby, who has been with the Rabbitohs since 2020, previously stepped in as interim head coach during the 2024 season. Antonelli returns to the club after a brief period with the Parramatta Eels, having previously coached the Rabbitohs’ NSW Cup team.
John Sutton, a revered figure in Rabbitohs history, will continue his role as Development Coach, focusing on the club’s emerging talent from the NRL down to the under-17s level. Additionally, Wayne Collins, who played a pivotal role in the club’s past successes, will come back as the NSW Cup Head Coach starting in 2025.
Trent Elkin joins the Rabbitohs as Head of Performance, bringing with him a wealth of experience from various high-performance roles within the league, including his recent tenure at Parramatta. Tom Watkins will also join the club as the Pathways Head of High Performance.
Mark Ellison will transition to the Head of Recruitment and Retention, emphasizing player procurement for the South Sydney Club. David Furner will assume responsibility as Head of Pathways, overseeing all talent and coaching initiatives from junior levels to senior squads. Tyrone McCarthy will assist him in this role as the Pathways Skill Acquisition Coach.
Jason Clark has been elevated to the role of Football Manager, collaborating with Football Logistics and Facilities Manager Kyle Furner to handle the daily operations of the football department. Rob Capizzi will also rejoin the Rabbitohs as Pathways and Women’s Operations Manager, preparing the groundwork for a future NRLW team.
A comprehensive team of medical and performance specialists will continue their important roles, ensuring that the players receive top-tier support throughout the season.
In summary, the Rabbitohs’ new coaching and support structure reflects a commitment to excellence and a strategic vision aimed at enhancing both player performance and overall club success. Fans can look forward to an exciting season as these key appointments aim to bring the Rabbitohs to new heights in NRL football.
This structured approach is not only a testament to the team’s dedication to building a strong foundation but also offers hope for a prosperous future in the coming seasons.
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