Cowboys add Ryan to coaching staff

North Queensland have added former Brisbane player Peter Ryan to their coaching staff as part of a ‘football restructure’.

Ryan, who also played rugby union for the the ACT Brumbies, will take charge of the Cowboys’ defence, alongside head coach Neil Henry and assistant Michael Crawley.

A veteran of 155 games for the Broncos, Ryan was known as an uncompromising defender in his playing days.

His appointment forms part of a ‘restructure’ of football operations at the Cowboys – a bid to improve on their miserable 2010 season.

The Cowboys avoided the NRL wooden spoon by default – finishing just one place above Melbourne, who were unable to earn any points due to sanctions imposed by the NRL.

But General Manager Peter Parr says Ryan is the perfect fit for the team, and their vision to improve in 2011.

“Peter Ryan’s exemplary playing record speaks for itself – he was known as a fearsome defender, and had a reputation of being a tough, disciplined player,” Parr says.
 
“Peter’s assistance in improving our defensive game for 2011 will be invaluable, and we’re delighted that he’s come on board to complete our new-look football department.”

Ryan moved into coaching at the conclusion of his playing career, acting as a defensive consultant with the Broncos and Queensland Reds.

He will be required to acclimatise quickly to his new environment, the Cowboys start their pre-season training on Monday.