Former Canberra Raiders star Brett White has been appointed the club’s NYC Coach for the 2016 season.
White was Assistant Coach for the team in 2015 and will take over from Mick Mantelli, who finishes up with the club after eight seasons of involvement with the NYC team including four as Head Coach from 2012-2015.
White said he’s looking forward to the challenge of coaching the team next season and said he’s gained some valuable experience in his first full-season as part of the Raiders coaching team.
“I can’t wait to take on the role and I know I have some fantastic support at the club with experienced coaches like Ricky Stuart, Mick Crawley and Dean Pay to seek advice from,” White said. “This year was my first full-season as a Coach and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it and have been able to learn a lot from Mick Mantelli.”
White said the Raiders NYC team has a proud history of being able to develop players to take the next step to the elite level and said his focus would be on continuing this and making sure he gets the best out of the team and individuals.
“The Raiders have produced some very talented NRL players from their junior ranks and I know it is part of my responsibility to make sure I help to best prepare the next crop of players for the next stages of their careers,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working with the team next season and helping to get them to a position where they can progress.”
Raiders Football Manager John Bonasera said the appointment of White as NYC Coach was great for the club and his experience at NRL level would be a huge advantage for the young players.
“Brett’s achieved everything in the game as a player, winning a Grand Final, playing representative football and leading the team on the field. We know he’ll bring his experience and knowledge to the NYC coaching position,” Bonasera said. “Having someone of Brett’s stature in the game to help mentor and develop young players is a huge positive for the club and we’re confident he’ll do a great job.”
Bonasera said the club thanked Mick Mantelli for his loyal service to the Raiders and wished him all the best for the future.
“Mick has been a part of the NYC structure since the competition was formed in 2008 and has been instrumental in developing a lot of players in his time with the club,” he said. “We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and he is always welcome at the club.”
