40 years an eagle
Bencher
Ivan Cleary is in his 12th season as coach, has zero premierships, and has made the finals only 5 times (grand final once)
Has not coached at the rich clubs but has mostly coached at the clubs richest in junior talent.
Rating – good coach. Proven? No
A Manly boy? Yes he was a Manly junior and debuted with Manly, but went to our biggest rivals the Bears then the Chooks, then Warriors. Only 15 games for Manly, does he identify as having ‘Manly’ culture, who knows? Does Gutho?
Before joining West Tigers his last four fulls seasons of coaching were at Penrith (15th, 10th, 4th , 11th)
Am I saying he is not a good coach? No, I am saying the grass is always greener.
I know his record and don't care one iota, we need a change and we NEED Manly guys in control of the club from top to bottom. That culture is the only way we can compete on this unlevel $ playing field.
Cleary's grass is greener than anyone else available.
If Toovey can't come back then Cleary is the best option IMHO..