The Warriors have secured a major boost ahead of their NRLW return, luring two-time premiership-winning coach Ronald Griffiths on a three-year deal.
Griffiths, who took the Knights to back-to-back premierships, elected to pursue a future in the men’s game earlier this season, transitioning to focus on coaching Newcastle’s NSW Cup program.
The Knights confirmed his departure on Monday.
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“Ronald has made a wonderful contribution in his time here,” Knights director of football Peter Parr said in a statement.
“It cannot be understated what he has done for this club and the players he has directly influenced.
“As a two-time premiership-winning coach, he will always be remembered as a champion of the Newcastle Knights.
“Ronald departs with our eternal gratitude, we wish him, Chantelle and the family all the very best for the future.”
Indigenous All Stars coach Ronald Griffiths. Getty
Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden said the club “couldn’t have a better coach to launch” their NRLW return.
“What Ron did with the Knights in the NRLW over the last two seasons is a testament to his ability to build a team from scratch,” he said.
“He’s also passionate about developing our pathways for the women’s game here in New Zealand.”
Griffiths revealed the opportunity to be part of a foundation team was an exciting factor that drew him back to the women’s game.
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Knights players celebrate after winning back-to-back premiership trophies. Matt King via Getty Images
“As a family we’re so grateful to be coming over to be involved with a club that has such a proud history,” said Griffiths.
“It’s exciting to start with a blank canvas, having the opportunity to build a women’s program from the ground up.
“I’ll be working closely with the people in pathways to set up a structure that delivers sustainable success for the club and develops players and staff from within for the future.”