Yesterday, Rohan Smith was announced as the new Leeds Rhinos head coach on a three-and-a-half year deal.
It came as a surprise for some fans with Smith lacking experience of head coaching in the NRL and Super League, but the new Rhinos boss was defiant.
“Everyone’s entitled to have their opinion, but I’m in my fifth season of the third best tier of rugby league in the world where 50% of players have been in the NRL,” Smith said.
“It’s a high level competition and I’ve spent time under some of the greatest coaches of our era – Daniel Anderson, my father (Brian), and Trent Robinson who have been a huge influence.
“I’m in my 20th year of professional coaching, you can only get experience of the big job by being in the big job.
“I’m not under any false illusions of what the job entitles but other coaches have been highly successful who have been in the same boat as me such as Kristian Woolf and Justin Holbrook.”
With Rohan’s appointment coming at the same as Tony Smith’s exit from Hull KR, there has been speculation that Tony could be joining Rohan at Headingley.
But, Rohan insists that is not the case.
“Tony and I have regular texts about life and footy,” Smith said.
“I’m looking forward to spending time with my uncle but at this stage it’s as an uncle not as a colleague.”
Rohan also revealed when he will link up with his new side.
“I’m waiting for a call for an update on that, I’m hoping that in the next week or so that I will be there.”
