Premiership-winning coach Ronald Griffiths, who has twice tasted victory in the NRLW, is setting his sights on the National Rugby League scene. Griffiths expressed his hope that his ascent can inspire young Aboriginal men and women to consider leadership roles within the industry.
Recently, Griffiths confirmed his acceptance of a position as the coach of Newcastle’s NSW Cup team for the forthcoming three seasons. His tenure follows his successful guidance of the women’s team to back-to-back titles during his two-year reign.
The prominent coach, also known for leading the Indigenous All Stars and being a past Tigers assistant, joined the ranks of the six Indigenous head coaches in the NRLW this season. However, this progress has struggled to permeate into the NRL, a fact that drives Griffiths’ ambition to return and encourage others to emulate his path.
“There’s a noticeable shortage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander coaches,” Griffiths pointed out. “I don’t wish to be the sole beneficiary of my current endeavors, rather, I hope it illuminates the path for those who follow.”
Griffiths, the offspring of a successful rugby league coach, aspires to secure an NRL coaching role, a dream he feels would be a proud moment for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
His preparations resumed on Thursday, a month post clinching his second NRLW title with the Knights. Griffiths’ stint with the team was remarkable considering they didn’t even register a win in their debut season. This is why, according to him, departing was tough, despite the prospect of contending for more titles.
“There’s a part of me yearning for another strive at winning the premiership (with the NRLW team) but simultaneously, I felt a pull towards something different, something that would further my personal growth,” confessed Griffiths. He reasoned that his move allows him a longer coaching tenure and a chance to continue his magnificent run.
Unquestionably, 2023 was marvellous for the Knights in the NRL, epitomized by Kalyn Ponga securing the Dally M Medal and leading his team to the finals. However, the reserve grade had a tough season, finishing second to last. The Knights have been absent from the NSW Cup finals since 2017. Griffiths sees this as an opportunity to revitalise the team and restore its competitive edge.
Griffiths cautiously broaches the challenges of coaching at this level, handling roster changes and keeping local league players involved throughout the year. His goal extends to ensuring that first-grade players maintain their hunger for the NRL, preventing a lengthy stay in the NSW Cup due to outstanding play and training.
