Sunbury Tigers have turned to one of their stars to take on the coaching reins for this year’s Victorian Rugby League first division season.
The Tigers, who finished fourth after being knocked out in the first week of finals, announced earlier this year that Terry Constantinou would coach the side.
Constantinou, who has played for the Tigers since 2007, has played in six grand finals, including four premierships with the club.
Constantinou said there was excitement, but also nerves, about taking on the role.
“I’ve coached junior representative sides, but coaching men is a bit different,” he said.
“The club approached me and my concern was about juggling all my time. I gave it some time and talked it through with my inner circle and they were behind me taking on the role.
“Since it’s been announced I’ve got a few texts from players and coaches wanting to help out.”
He replaces Sione Ah Kuoi as coach.
Constantinou said he had started trying to recruit some players to the club and believes if they can retain last year’s squad they are in a really good starting position.
“The players are extremely talented,” he said.
“We need to put in the structures which complement their playing style.
“I want to up the players’ knowledge bases with what I’ve learnt from being a rep coach. I think they’ll benefit from it.
“I’ve sent out a few texts to guys who may have hung up the boots. Guys who played at higher level but could still hold their own at this level. There’s some other people who want to come over as well.”
At just 28, Constantinou will be a playing coach and said it was important to have a strong team around him.
Last year, Constantinou was a finalist in the NRL Victoria senior representative player of the year award. He’s represented Victoria on numerous occasions, while also playing for the Australian Affiliated States Team in Tonga and for Greece.
“I’m definitely still playing,” he said.
“I’m feeling old at 28, but I’m still in my prime. I’ll be looking to play a few rep games for Greece in June, so I need to keep playing.”
The new coach said he would miss three weeks with his rep commitments, but was confident it wouldn’t be an issue.
Senior training starts February 13.
