LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
South Sydney have made several changes to their coaching and staff lineup following the departure of club legend Sam Burgess.
According to a report by news.com.au, the club has extended the contract of coach Jason Demetriou in the aftermath of a turbulent end to the 2023 season.
Demetriou's handling of star players, including Latrell Mitchell, reportedly led to a falling out with Burgess and assistant coach John Morris, both of whom left the club.
In light of their departures, South Sydney has appointed Joe O'Callaghan, a premiership-winning NSW cup coach, as a full-time assistant, effectively replacing Burgess.
In addition, South Sydney legend John Sutton will take on a full-time development coaching role, working alongside O'Callaghan.
The aim is to revive the club's fortunes after missing the finals in 2023 due to a late-season fade out.
Rabbitohs chairman Nick Pappas expressed his satisfaction with Demetriou's coaching, stating that he is someone the players "want to play for." Pappas also announced that the club's board was thrilled to extend Demetriou's tenure for another two seasons.
These changes come as South Sydney looks to regroup and strengthen their squad in order to bounce back from a disappointing season.
With a renewed coaching lineup and a focus on player development, the Rabbitohs are determined to regain their position as a top contender in the Rugby League.