LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a move that could be described as a "Hail Mary pass", Paul Stringer, a former NRL hard-hitting forward, has secured his first head coaching position.
Stringer, known for his tough playing style on the field, has been announced as the new head honcho for the Kurri Kurri Bulldogs in the Newcastle Rugby League competition.
Taking the reins from Rip Taylor, Stringer will aim to lead the Bulldogs to the promised land of the Grand Final, a feat they haven't accomplished since the glory days of 2013.
Their last premiership victory dates all the way back to 1995, a time when mullets and scrums were all the rage in the rugby league world.
With the Bulldogs teetering on the brink of their third consecutive wooden spoon, Stringer faces a monumental task ahead.
The team, without a win in over 800 days, last tasted victory on May 28, 2022.
As the fifth head coach since the 2021 season, Stringer will need to inject some fresh energy and strategic prowess into the struggling squad.
In the world of rugby league, where grit and determination are valued above all else, Stringer's appointment signals a new chapter for the Bulldogs.
With the weight of history and the expectations of fans resting on his shoulders, Stringer will need to call upon all his experience and knowledge of the game to turn the Bulldogs' fortunes around.