Brad Fittler has shared his coaching insights with Kieran Foran as he steps into the interim head coach role for the Manly Sea Eagles. This unexpected transition comes after Anthony Seibold’s dismissal, and Foran’s appointment follows his recent retirement from playing, having only just taken up an assistant coach position.
Fittler can relate to Foran’s situation, recalling his own rise to head coach of the Sydney Roosters back in 2007, shortly after retiring as a player. At that time, he took over mid-season after Chris Anderson left post a heavy defeat to Manly, leading to an impressive unbeaten streak of five games.
Foran’s Sea Eagles are set to start their journey with three consecutive away games against the Dolphins, Dragons, and Cowboys. Fittler believes these initial outings could serve as a beneficial chance for Foran to settle into his new role while travelling with the team.
Reflecting on his own early experiences as a head coach, Fittler noted that Foran’s schedule allows for a good opportunity to focus and reset, similar to his own experience during a training camp in Kiama that helped reinvigorate his team.
In addition to encouragement, Fittler offered a word of caution to Foran regarding the mental pressures that come with being the head coach. He explained that while assistant coaches can manage their thoughts and step back when needed, head coaches often find it challenging to switch off. Fittler remarked, “When you’re the head coach, you don’t get your life back,” pointing out that the constant mental load is something Foran will soon find ingrained in his nightly routines.
Despite the challenges, Fittler emphasised that being in this role is exciting and rewarding, albeit demanding. As Foran prepares to lead the Sea Eagles, they will face the Dolphins in their opening match on Thursday night, marking the beginning of what he hopes will be a successful chapter for the team.