New NRL side the Dolphins continue to bolster their off-field line-up, with news today that former Bronco Ben Te’o will join the club.
The Courier-Mail is reporting that Te’o will link up with his former coach Wayne Bennett in a mentoring role, after announcing his retirement from rugby league earlier this year.
“The approach only came in the last few days and it was an opportunity I couldn’t knock back,” Te’o told News Corp.
“When someone like Wayne opens the door for you to start your coaching journey, it’s an amazing opportunity.
“We have never had a player-coach relationship, which is interesting, but we are starting a different type of relationship which I’m looking forward to.”
The 34-year-old spent the past two years back in Brisbane following a six-year stint in rugby union.
He won a premiership with South Sydney in 2014 before jumping ship to Leinster in the 15-man game, and represented England at international level 16 times.
He played seven State of Origins for Queensland and had one cap for Samoa before swapping sports.
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“There were some opportunities at the Broncos but this is the right way for me to go,” he said.
“I start pre-season with the Dolphins on the 15th of November and I’m thinking about how I want the guys to train and play.
“If I want to coach, I need to have my own team. It’s really important to do a full season, ride the highs and lows, and be the main voice.”
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The new franchise are yet to announce any on-field signings, although they have been linked with superstars including Kalyn Ponga and Daly Cherry-Evans, the latter of whom’s current club issued a hands off warning last week.
“It’s definitely our plan to make sure Daly finishes a one-club player,” Sea Eagles owner Scott Penn said.
In terms of forwards, the club had been linked with Parramatta middle Reagan Campbell-Gillard until it was confirmed yesterday that he had re-signed with the Eels until the end of 2025.