Narrowing the gap between Brisbane’s best and worst rugby league is the simple objective of new coach Anthony Seibold this season.
The reigning NRL coach of the year reckons he learnt plenty in his one season in charge of South Sydney before a high-profile, fast-tracked swap with Wayne Bennett landed him at Red Hill in December.
Describing the scenario as a circus, Seibold “drew a line in the sand” that day and says he’s worked to achieve his objectives ever since.
Quirky differences between the pair’s methods have been heavily reported – ask Seibold about the dance music blaring during fitness drills and he rolls his eyes.
The former prop from Rockhampton, who was once a teacher and university lecturer, has previously picked the brains of highly-accomplished fashion producer Kannon Rajah and deep-thinking television host Todd Sampson.
That open-minded approach has continued in Brisbane, with both Port Adelaide and North Melbourne AFL clubs observing training this year.
Seibold also sent Anthony Milford, Kodi Nikorima, Andrew McCullough and Jamayne Isaako to the Kangaroos for exposure in a different professional environment.
The squad’s best trainer gets to wear the game-day strip and every player is aware of where they stand on a team depth chart that will ebb and flow as form fluctuates this season.
It’s all designed to iron out the inconsistency that had Bennett scratching his head at times last season.
“I’m not sure about potential, or how you know if they’ve reached their potential,” Seibold said.
“But I know last season they were nine out of 10 some weeks and other weeks they were three out of 10.
“So we need to close the gap a bit because there’s been a clear gap between their best and worst, both individually and collectively.”
Seibold has plenty to play with this season as Matt Gillett, Payne Haas and Jack Bird return from injury-plagued 2018 campaigns to add defensive steel.
Veteran forwards Josh McGuire (North Queensland) and Sam Thaiday (retired) have departed, along with Korbin Sims (St George Illawarra).
But Matt Lodge, Tevita Pangai, Joe Ofahengaue, Shaun Fensom, Sam Tagataese, Patrick Mago and young pair Tom Flegler and Patrick Carrigan remain.
David Fifita will push for minutes in the back row, while teenage standout Tom Dearden and Roosters recruit Sean O’Sullivan will put pressure on halves pairing Anthony Milford and Kodi Nikorima after a flaky 2018.
The players have responded with typical preseason vigour. Nikorima credited a chat with Seibold for renewed clarity around his role, while Bird relished the “full-on” sessions that have improved him mentally and physically.
Seibold’s curiosity means he’s always looking for ways to improve, but he insists he’s already well positioned as the club seeks its first title since 2006.
“There are clear processes in place, but you can always get better,” Seibold said.
“I get in at 5am, usually out around 6pm each day – good routines, good habits, hard work and no surprises so far.”
BRONCOS
Finishes over the past three seasons: 2018 – 6th, 2017 – 3rd, 2016 – 5th
Coach: Anthony Seibold
Captain: Darius Boyd
Key gains: Sean O’Sullivan (Roosters), Shaun Fensom (Cowboys)
Key losses: Korbin Sims, Jonus Pearson (Dragons), Tom Opacic, Josh McGuire (Cowboys), Sam Thaiday (retired).
Best team: 1. Darius Boyd, 2. Corey Oates, 3. Jack Bird, 4. James Roberts, 5. Jamayne Isaako, 6. Anthony Milford, 7. Kodi Nikorima, 8. Matt Lodge, 9. Andrew McCullough, 10. Joe Ofahengaue, 11. Jaydn Su’A, 12. Matt Gillett, 13. Tevita Pangai, 14. Alex Glenn, 15. David Fifita, 16. Payne Haas, 17. Kotoni Staggs.
Predicted finish: 3rd
