All Black Legend Brad Thorn named as new Reds coach

The Queensland Rugby Union have announced that they have agreed to part ways with current head coach Nick Stiles, effectively immediately.

 
Former World Cup-winning All Black Brad Thorn has been appointed the Reds new head coach. He will be supported in the role by recently appointed senior assistant coach Tony McGahan (defence), with additional assistant coaches to be announced.
 

Thorn has already experienced success within Queensland Rugby’s pathway programs, guiding the Queensland U20s to two Super U20 Championship titles as an assistant coach in 2016 and as head coach to an undefeated season in 2017.

 
He was also assistant coach of Bond University Queensland Country in the 2016 National Rugby Championship and is currently head coach, leading them to their most successful season to date, with four rounds still remaining in the season.

 
Thorn joined the QRU in late 2015 as Queensland Elite Development Squad forwards coach, after retiring from playing following more than two decades of unparalleled success at the elite level. He has been with QRU for the duration of his coaching career and said he was humbled to be given an opportunity to lead the Reds.

 
Thorn said: “I believe actions speak louder than words. I’ve been grateful for the opportunity to spend the last two years at Ballymore coaching the Queensland Under 20s, Queensland Country and the Reds.
 
“I feel I’m contributing to a change in culture and standards in those teams and I look forward to continuing to contribute to this organisation and the success of the Reds.”

 
Thorn will be supported well by recently appointed senior assistant coach McGahan, who joined the Reds in September to add a decade of experience to the Reds coaching ranks.
 
 
Thorn will continue his current role as Queensland Country head coach, before officially starting his new role with the Reds when pre-season training for the 2018 Super Rugby season begins in late November.