Queensland Rugby Union today announced St.George Queensland Reds assistant coach Paul Carozza will step down from his Super Rugby role to resume his important work in the Reds’ academy.
The former Queensland and Wallabies winger joined the Reds coaching staff for the first time ahead of the 2018 season, after 15 years in various coaching roles at Ballymore.
He has identified and developed countless stars during this time and while he enjoyed working directly with the Reds, he said he felt it was a good time for him to return to the elite pathway.
“It certainly wasn’t an easy decision. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time working with the guys this year and taking on the challenge of a Super Rugby season, but I’ve given it a lot of thought and feel strongly that it is the right decision for me and the team moving forward,” Carozza said.
“It was important to me to inform Brad, the Board and the team of my decision as soon as possible, to allow them to get started on looking for a suitable replacement. I’m sure they’ll find someone well qualified to complement the strong work already being done by the other coaching staff.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Brad since he joined the QRU in 2015 and feel strongly he is the right man to move this state forward.
“Not everything went our way this season, but we certainly made progress and by introducing so many young players to Super Rugby this year, we have set the foundations for the future.
“I’m looking forward to getting back into the state’s pathways so we can continue to strengthen that space.”While disappointed to be losing his assistant coach, Thorn said he was pleased to see Carozza will remain at QRU.
“It’s a real shame to be losing Paul from the coaching staff. He has been a massive support to me since I joined the QRU and I really appreciate his insight into the game. We’ve worked together for the last few years across the Queensland U20s, Queensland Country and the Reds and his support has been invaluable,” Thorn said.
“It was always a tough call for him to leave the academy to join me in the Reds coaching staff because it is an area he has been vital to for so long. It’s sad to see him go, but it is also great to know he is returning to that pathway space, where he will continue to do great work.
“We know the Queensland pathway programs will be in good hands with Paul involved.”
