The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have met with Geoff Toovey and mutually agreed that he will remain as coach until the end of the 2015 season.
The club will honour Toovey’s contract in full until the end of the 2016 season.
Former St George-Illawarra, NSW Origin and Australian Test five-eighth Trent Barrett will be the new Sea Eagles coach for the next three years from 2016.
Manly Warringah CEO Joe Kelly thanked Geoff for his service and commitment to the club.
“Geoff has been an influential figure within the Sea Eagles organisation for almost three decades. His contribution on and off the field is unprecedented, and he will always be one of the club’s favourite sons,’’ Kelly said.
“Geoff and the club remain firmly committed to finishing this season off on the highest possible note.”
Chairman Scott Penn echoed Kelly’s sentiments.
“Geoff has been an integral part of the club since first playing in our junior ranks over 30 years ago,’’ Penn said.
“Geoff is a club legend having played 286 first grade games for the Sea Eagles including three Grand Finals from 1995-97, captaining the team to the 1996 Premiership and numerous representative appearances.
“We’ve all had the pleasure of watching his career evolve from being one of the toughest competitors on the field to coaching our first grade team in recent years.
“Geoff is a Life Member of the Sea Eagles and his lifelong commitment to the club is without question.
“In late April, the club was fortunate to secure iconic club coach and player Bob Fulton as an advisor to work with management and help restructure the future football pathways from juniors through to the NRL level.
“This has been an intense and thorough process to ensure the long term future and ongoing success of the club.
“Significant changes will be occurring. These changes won’t take away from the success the club has enjoyed, but will help reinforce the foundation for a successful future. We are excited about 2016 and beyond.”
Out of respect for the club and Geoff Toovey, Trent Barrett will be making no comment until the season has concluded.
