“Shocking Exit: South Sydney Rabbitohs Sack Head Coach Jason Demetriou After Disastrous Season Start” .see more details..
The South Sydney Rabbitohs have officially parted ways with head coach Jason Demetriou, effective immediately, following a disappointing start to the 2024 NRL season. This decision comes after the team secured only one win in their first seven matches, placing them at the bottom of the league ladder for the first time in 14 years .
Demetriou, who succeeded Wayne Bennett in 2022, initially led the Rabbitohs to a preliminary final in his first year. However, the team’s performance declined over time, culminating in a series of heavy defeats, including a 48-6 loss to the Sydney Roosters and a significant defeat by the New Zealand Warriors .
In response to the team’s struggles, the Rabbitohs’ board convened and decided to terminate Demetriou’s contract. CEO Blake Solly acknowledged Demetriou’s dedication but emphasized that the recent results did not meet the club’s standards. Assistant coach Ben Hornby has been appointed as the interim head coach for the remainder of the 2024 season .
Looking ahead, the Rabbitohs are considering several candidates for the permanent head coach position. Notably, Wayne Bennett, who previously coached the team to the 2021 Grand Final, is a strong contender. Bennett is set to leave the Dolphins at the end of the current season, making him available for a potential return to South Sydney .
Demetriou has responded to his dismissal with professionalism, expressing pride in his achievements with the Rabbitohs and indicating his intention to continue his coaching career in the NRL .