Brad Fittler has extended some coaching insights to Kieran Foran as he gears up for his inaugural match as the head coach of the Manly Sea Eagles.
Foran has stepped into the interim coaching position following the dismissal of Anthony Seibold, despite being relatively new to his role as an assistant after retiring from playing just last year.
Fittler can relate to Foran’s predicament, having found himself in a similar situation back in 2007.
After hanging up his boots with the Roosters three years prior, he took over the coaching reins following Chris Anderson’s departure in the wake of a heavy 56-0 defeat to Manly.
The legendary Roosters player assumed control mid-season and guided the team through an impressive unbeaten streak of five matches.
Foran’s tenure at Manly kicks off with three away matches against the Dolphins, Dragons, and Cowboys, and Fittler believes this could be an advantageous way to commence the campaign.
Kieran Foran addressing the media. Nine
“It allows you to settle in, being away with the team,” he mentioned on Wide World of Sports’ Freddy & The Eighth.
“When I first took over, mine was quite similar, it occurred right after a Manly-Roosters game where the Roosters suffered a heavy loss, and I stepped in the following week.
“We had a camp in Kiama that turned out to be incredibly effective. It gave us an opportunity to refocus, start afresh and off we went. So I believe his series of away games will be beneficial.”
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However, Fittler cautioned Foran that a lot of mental noise lies ahead.
“You won’t find peace of mind,” he remarked.
Brad Fittler. Nine
“As an assistant, you can head home and take a break, consciously deciding what aspects to consider during training or whom to speak to. But as head coach, there’s none of that; you won’t regain your personal time. Your mind will keep racing with thoughts … that’s what he will likely notice, even at night when trying to sleep, your mind keeps going.”
“It’s a thrilling role, definitely a great opportunity, but it’s demanding as well, it can take a toll on your body.”
Foran’s Sea Eagles will take on the Dolphins this Thursday night.
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