LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
James Maloney, the former rugby league star, has stunned fans by revealing a key detail about his decision not to join the Sydney Roosters coaching staff.
In a recent interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Maloney disclosed that a chance encounter with Todd Payten's agent, Isaac Moses, at a chicken shop in Penrith changed his mind.
Initially, Maloney had been in talks with the Roosters and had even spoken to coach Trent Robinson about a part-time role.
However, Moses informed Maloney that Payten was looking for a full-time assistant coach following Dean Young's departure.
This unexpected twist sparked a conversation with Maloney's wife, Jessica, as they had just settled their family in Sydney after spending three years in France.
Despite the potential upheaval, Jessica agreed to relocate once again, and the family will be moving up north to join the Cowboys for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Although Maloney had previously won a premiership with the Roosters in 2013 and still maintains relationships with key figures at the club, he opted for a new challenge and a full-time position in the Cowboys' coaching staff.
It remains to be seen how the Roosters will react to Maloney's decision, particularly in light of Moses' omission of the club during negotiations with Joseph Suaalii and Rugby Australia earlier this year.