FORMER Newcastle Knights premiership-winning coach Michael Hagan was today confirmed as the XXXX Maroons assistant coach for the 2010 Harvey Norman State of Origin Series.
Hagan replaces Neil Henry, who has opted to concentrate on his club duties with the North Queensland Cowboys following four successful Origin campaigns.
XXXX Maroons Head Coach Mal Meninga said he was delighted to receive the phone call today from Hagan confirming his availability.
“I’m extremely happy about it,” Meninga said of Hagan’s appointment.
“He’s been around the traps and has played and coached at this level before. He’ll fit in very well with our team set up and his tactical and technical knowledge will be a major asset.”
This appointment means both the head coach and assistant do not have club ties, the first time this has occurred in the modern area.
Hagan played five State of Origin matches for the Maroons and coached the Queensland Origin side in 2004 and 2005.
The opening match of the 2010 State of Origin Series is at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium on May 26.
