Sharks premiership hero Michael Ennis has traded his coaching consultancy role with the Eels to return to Cronulla in 2023 in an exciting new role.
The Daily Telegraph reported Ennis has accepted an offer from coach Craig Fitzgibbon to oversee pathways development at the club’s elite junior Academy from 13 to 20-year-olds.
Ennis was excited to return to a club he has such special history with after starting in the role last week.
“It felt so nice to have the Sharks shirt on again and driving through the gates,” Ennis told The Daily Telegraph.
“I got really excited about it when Fitzy rang to return to the club that is so special to me.
“I’m really passionate about junior pathways and my job will be to ensure the Sharks youngsters have a healthy environment. I love watching and helping kids chasing their NRL dreams.”
Ennis has had a strong start to his coaching career having helped Brad Arthur take the Eels to last year’s grand final after originally assisting Ricky Stuart at the Canberra Raiders in their run to the 2019 decider.
Ennis cited work conflicts as the reason he couldn’t accept a full-time assistant coaching role at the Eels.
“I spoke to Brad Arthur towards the end of last year,” Ennis said.
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“I explained I couldn’t be a full-time assistant because of Fox Sports, where I’ve got a job that I love.
“I could only be there a couple of days a week as a consultant.
“So then Fitzy rang and I’m back at the Sharks.”
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Ennis played 274 NRL games, 51 of those at the Sharks, after he was let go from the Bulldogs for the final two years of his career.
Fitzgibbon was excited to bring a premiership winning star with as much experience as Ennis back to the club.
“I’m excited to have Mick on board,” Fitzgibbon said.
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“He was a premiership winning player here and since retiring he’s maintained a close involvement in the game through his Fox Sports commentary and as an NRL coaching consultant.
“Mick is a local resident with a keen interest in junior league and has a passion for coaching.
“Our young pathway and academy players will definitely benefit from his knowledge and experience.”
