St George Illawarra Dragons have announced Dean Young as interim coach following the sacking of Shane Flanagan.
Young, 42, who spent nine years as a Dragons player and helped the club win the premiership in 2010, was Flanagan’s assistant for two years but will now assume the top position until the end of the season.
The club confirmed Young “will lead the team with immediate effect while the club undertakes its process to appoint a permanent head coach”.
He previously filled the role of Dragons interim coach for six games in 2020.
Young, who is also Laurie Daley’s assistant for the NSW Blues, said: “It’s a privilege to lead this club.
“This current group of players mean a lot to me. I want to support them through this transition.
“Our focus right now is staying connected as a team and being the best version of ourselves on Anzac Day.”
The Dragons have lost all seven of their games at the start of the 2026 season — having also lost their final four in 2025.
But Young will have to wait until Wednesday for his first session with the players after Tuesday training was cancelled, with staff deciding it would act as better preparation for Saturday’s game against the Roosters.
Young won two of his six games in charge during his first spell as Dragons’ interim coach six years ago.
But chief executive Tim Watsford has little doubt Young is the man to take the club forward for the remainder of the season.
He said: “Dean understands this club better than most. He has a deep connection to the Dragons and the respect of our players and staff.
“This appointment provides the football program with stability and leadership while the club undertakes a thorough process around its long-term coaching future.
“Our priority right now is to support Dean and the playing group as they restore consistency in our performance and ensure the standards of this club are upheld every day.”
Originally published as Dragons announce new coach after training is cancelled