Dean Young has been appointed St George Illawarra coach on a permanent deal.
The premiership winner took over on an interim basis three months ago and has impressed in his short time in charge.
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He has taken the NRL strugglers from a team without a win to one who pushed the second-placed Warriors all the way at the Go Media Stadium on Saturday.
And although the Dragons remain at the foot of the ladder, Young will remain at the club long-term.
Young reportedly beat his 2010 premiership winning teammate Ben Hornby to the position.
It is understood he will sign a contract until 2028.
As a result, he dad – club legend Craig Young – will step down as Dragons chairman.
Young should prove a popular appointment given his playing success with the club, while he has overseen two wins in ten games as coach.
“Leading this great club is a privilege, but I understand that it also comes with responsibility and pressure,” Young said.
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“I have experienced success and failure in this game, as both a player and a coach. Those experiences have given me the confidence to lead this club back to where it belongs.â
“I want our fans to be proud of our football team. Proud of how hard we compete and how consistent we are.â It’s my job to create an environment that delivers these values.â
“We have only just started to see the potential of this team. There’s a lot more work to be done.”
The Dragons’ board and shareholders have unanimously recommended Young’s appointment, with CEO Tim Watsford confident they have found the right man.
“We said from the outset that we would take the time needed to make the right decision for the Club’s future,” he said in a statement.
“This has been a structured process, and Dean has emerged as the candidate we believe is best placed to lead the next phase of our football program.
“Dean’s history with the Dragons is well known and respected, but that is not why he has been appointed.
“This decision is based on the strength of his football plan, his connection with players, his leadership of staff, his alignment with our pathways and recruitment strategy, and his understanding of what this Club needs to become.â
“We understand our members and supporters want results. So do we. Dean recognises the responsibility that comes with this role, and he will be supported by a football structure designed to drive standards, development and performance throughout the program.”
Originally published as Dean Young appointed permanent coach of St George Illawarra after impressive interim spell