Huddersfield Giants' Brad Drew on new coaching role

Jun 28 2010 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Brad Drew

NEW Giants Under 20s coach Brad Drew presided over another success for his side and declared: “This is the future for me!”

The 34-year-old Australian half-back was again at the helm at the weekend as Huddersfield secured a thrilling 30-28 Valvoline Cup triumph over Hull KR at Laund Hill.

It was Drew’s sixth game in charge after taking over from previous coach Paul Cook, who was forced to quit due to business commitments.

Cook does, of course, remain a key member of the Giants’ backroom staff, particularly on a matchday.

But with Drew having more time to spare, he was handed the 20s coaching reins by Galpharm chief Nathan Brown – and the experienced campaigner believes this could be just the break he needs.

“When I retire it’s always been my goal to stay in the game, and coaching is something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Drew, who was delighted with the way his side competed against a strong Rovers’ second string.

“This opening came, ironically, after the game at Hull KR the other month when I was forced to come off injured with my knee problem.

“That’s when Browny came up and asked me if I’d be interested in the 20s job.

“He knew I was keen on going into coaching and told me I could give it a go and keep training with the first team at the same time.

“Fortunately, I’m absolutely loving the coaching, my knee’s loosened up and I’m able to play in Super League again. Things couldn’t be going much better at the moment.”

But even though Drew has revealed his strong desire to get into coaching once he’s hung up the boots, the former Australian NRL star hasn’t made a decision on when that will be.

He again came off the bench against Hull KR on Friday to provide his side with a much-needed lift.

And while he is still contributing and enjoying playing, he’s no intention of quitting the current day job just yet.

“I’m very much playing it by ear at the moment,” added Drew, who signed a one-year deal when rejoining the Giants from Wakefield at the end of last season.