JASON Demetriou, the mastermind behind the Illawarra Cutters’ irresistible premiership surge, has been poached by the Brisbane Broncos.
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After winning the national championships decider on NRL grand final day at ANZ Stadium with a thumping 54-12 win over Queensland champions Burleigh, Demetriou has been signed by 2010 Dragons premiership coach Wayne Bennett. The Cutters scored 595 points for the NSW Premiership season, before holding on for a thrilling 21-20 victory in the state grand final against favourites Mounties.
With NRL discards Josh McCrone, Drew Hutchison, Siliva Havili and Adam Quinlan in the team, Demetriou turned the Cutters into a potent attacking force.
Meanwhile, St George Illawarra were the second-lowest scoring team in the NRL, only behind wooden spoon outfit Newcastle. As the Dragons appoint a new performance committee, led by former player Mark Coyne, to oversee the club’s development, coach Paul McGregor admitted his disappointment to lose Demetriou.
“Jason was an integral part of our NRL Coaching Staff and deserves every accolade for what was achieved with the Illawarra Cutters this season,” McGregor said.
"I thank him for his contributions and support throughout 2016 and whilst disappointed, I understand his decision given the long-term contract offered by the Broncos.”
Demetriou, released early from his contract, said he was surprised by Bennett’s approach.
“I have had a great time here at the Dragons as well as the Illawarra Cutters,” Demetriou said.
“And I would really like to thank the club and everyone involved for the opportunity to come here and for also understanding and respecting my request for an early release to take up the multi-year offer at the Broncos
“This opportunity was not something I expected or went looking for as I was already working on plans for the Dragons for 2017 when the approach came.
“After much thought and discussion with my family, I decided that this was the best thing for us.”