The Redcliffe Dolphins have appointed Eric Smith as their Hostplus Cup coach for next season, in a role that will include working within the club's NRL coaching and pathways teams.
Smith, who has coached the Northern Pride to this year's Hostplus Cup minor premiership, will join the Dolphins when the NRL pre-season begins in November.
Smith will bring a wealth of knowledge to the role being vacated by Ben Te'o.
He has previous experience at NRL level within both the Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights systems, as well as coaching in the Queensland Rugby League with the Sunshine Coast Falcons and Brisbane Tigers.
Redcliffe Dolphins' chief executive Scott Clark said Smith was ideally suited for the job.
"Eric has a long track record of improving the sides he has coached, which has again been demonstrated by the performance of the Northern Pride this season," Clark said.
"We are certain Eric will replicate that level of performance at the Redcliffe Dolphins, and also play an important role in the transition of players to the NRL system."
Meanwhile, the Northern Pride said in a statement it was a "significant
achievement" for Smith.
"We are thrilled to see him take this well-deserved step forward in his coaching career," CEO Garreth Smith said in the statement.
"Eric has been instrumental in our success this season, leading the Northern Pride to new heights in 2024.
"His dedication, strategic vision, and ability to inspire our playing group have been key to our outstanding performance. We are immensely grateful for his contributions and are confident that he will make a significant impact at the Dolphins."
Match: Bears v Pride
Round 23 -
home Team
Bears
6th Position
away Team
Pride
1st Position
Venue: UAA Park, Gold Coast
Smith shared the news with the playing group on Wednesday night, ahead of their final regular round match on Saturday against the Burleigh Bears.
The minor premiers will kick off their finals campaign next week, with the club saying the focus is firmly on 2024 and continuing to build momentum throughout the finals.
Redcliffe are also focused on their own finals campaign.
"The reaction from the team was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the strong bonds and mutual respect that Eric has built within the club," the Pride's statement read.
"Eric will remain with the club until the end of the season and as always, our focus remains on finishing the regular season strong and building momentum as we head into the 2024 finals campaign.
"The Northern Pride will begin the recruitment process for a new head coach immediately, with the aim of making an appointment for the 2025 season in a timely manner.
"We are committed to finding a leader who will continue to build on the foundations that Eric has laid and guide our club to further success.
"We thank Eric for his exceptional service and wish him, Heidi, and his daughter Honey all the best in his new role with the Dolphins.
"Our entire club, players, staff, and partners are behind him as he embarks on this exciting new chapter."
