Manly Officials Support Kieran Foran to Guide Tom Trbojevic
Manly officials are showing strong support for Kieran Foran, believing he can bring out the best in former teammate Tom Trbojevic. They also plan to consult the club captain on who should be the next head coach of the Sea Eagles. Owner and chairman Scott Penn has made it clear that he wants the successor to Anthony Seibold to have a deep connection with Manly’s culture.
As Foran took charge of his first training session at Brookvale Oval on Sunday, just 24 hours after being appointed as caretaker coach and 36 hours after Seibold was unexpectedly dismissed, Penn expressed optimism about the situation. He believes the recent events at Brookvale could be a positive turning point for the club’s star player.
Trbojevic signed a one-year contract extension last year, which will keep him at the club until the end of 2027. However, Penn is confident that the fullback and local junior will thrive under Foran’s leadership.
Trbojevic faced challenges with confidence throughout the previous season and was even moved from his preferred fullback position to the centres to help regain his form. Penn emphasized that Foran will not complicate things for “Turbo” and will make it clear that he is the long-term No.1. At the same time, the chairman noted that Foran will not hesitate to have difficult conversations with the marquee player if needed.
“Tommy is the captain of our club, and he’s at Manly for as long as he wants to be, and for as long as he feels like he can contribute to the team,” Penn said on Sunday. “He’s not going anywhere. And I truly believe the appointment of ‘Foz’ [Foran] might actually help him. I think the whole situation can help him.”
“Foz has never been afraid to have a tough conversation with players. He’s played with Tommy, he knows what he likes and his style. Foz will make sure he holds every player to the same standards he holds himself to.”
Potential Candidates for the Next Head Coach
Several names have been mentioned as potential candidates to replace Seibold, all of whom have a connection to the Manly system either as players or coaches. These include Foran, assistant coach Brett Kimmorley, Manly premiership winner and Broncos assistant Matt Ballin, former Sea Eagles assistant and current Dragons assistant Mick Ennis, and former Manly assistant and current Leeds mentor Brad Arthur. Willie Peters was also considered a good fit, but he is committed to the PNG Chiefs.
Penn emphasized that there is no issue with focusing on Manly alumni to get the most out of what he sees as a premiership-ready squad. “It’s always ideal if the coach is a Manly person,” Penn said. “We need the right calibre of person to help us win premierships. It’s important to have someone who understands our DNA and expectations of the club.”
“Having played at Manly, those individuals know the expectations and what people expect. That’s not to say people who haven’t played or been at our club won’t know that, but if you’ve lived and breathed and bled for the Sea Eagles, you truly understand it.”
When it comes to the next coach, Penn acknowledged that the reality is that the club captain will also need to be comfortable with the incoming coach. “Our captain will also need to get on with the person coming in,” he added.
The Importance of Manly DNA
Penn highlighted the significance of having a coach who understands the club’s identity and values. He believes that individuals who have been part of the Manly system are more likely to grasp the expectations and culture of the club. This approach is seen as vital for maintaining the team’s performance and success.
By selecting a coach with a strong connection to Manly, the club aims to ensure continuity and a shared vision for the future. This decision reflects the club’s commitment to preserving its legacy while striving for continued success on the field.
