Former South Sydney coach Jason Demetriou is back in work, agreeing to become head coach of the Kumuls, the Papua New Guinea national team.
Demetriou left the Rabbitohs in April following several heavy defeats. It was a disappointing end to his first head coaching role in the NRL having led the Rabbitohs to the preliminary final in his debut 2022 season and had them second in the ladder midway through 2023 before the team fell away.
Nevertheless, the appointment of a coach with his experience is regarded as enhancing the push to site an NRL club in PNG.
The 48-year-old Sydneysider, who spent his entire playing career in England, was previously on the coaching staff at North Queensland Cowboys, St George Illawarra, Brisbane Broncos and Souths.
“he game in PNG is going from strength to strength and it is a fantastic opportunity to work with such a talented squad,” said Demetriou.
“I have watched the team with interest in recent years and they have a passion for the game that shows itself every time they pull on the Kumuls jersey and represent their country.
“I know that a tremendous amount of work is being done at school and academy level to help prepare the next generation of players and I’m incredibly excited to be able to work off the back of that with the senior team.
“It is a great time to be involved in the game in this country and I’m excited about what lies ahead.”
Demetriou’s arrival has been welcomed by the campaign to bring the NRL to PNG.
“Everything we are doing is in preparation for becoming an NRL team and we believe Jason’s appointment is another really positive step towards that goal,” said PNG NRL Bid chief executive, Andrew Hill.
“Having someone of Jason’s standing in the game take on the Kumuls head coaching role is another great step towards becoming part of the NRL.”
The length of Demetriou’s contract is unclear with PNGRFL CEO, Stanley Hondina hinting it was a short one that may be extended to include the next World Cup.
“We are interested in building a long term relationship with Jason leading up to the 2026 RLWC and have been in talks with Jason and are looking forward to finalising this soon,” said Hondina.
