Mick Potter takes over as interim boss of Canterbury Bulldogs

Drew Darbyshire
Mick Potter PA

Former Catalans, St Helens and Bradford boss Mick Potter has taken over the coaching reins at NRL side Canterbury Bulldogs on an interim basis.

The 58-year-old has most recently been coaching the Mounties in the New South Wales Cup. He will move into the Bulldogs interim role immediately after Trent Barrett’s departure earlier this week.

Potter made 80 appearances for Canterbury as a player between 1983-88. He helped the club win back-to-back Premierships in ’84 and ’85.

The Australian made the transition into coaching after hanging up his boots. He spent three seasons with Catalans Dragons when they entered Super League in 2006.

Potter then went on to coach St Helens (2009-10) and Bradford (2011-12) in England. He returned Down Under to coach NRL side Wests Tigers between 2013-14.

He coached Fiji at the 2017 World Cup, helping the Bati reach the semi-finals.

Mick Potter honoured to make Canterbury return

Potter is excited to take up the opportunity the Bulldogs have given him.

He said: “I’m very honoured to be back at the Bulldogs.

“I wish it were under different circumstances as I’ve known Trent for a long time and I really feel for him.

“I will do what I can to help the club at this time.”

Bulldogs general manager of football Phil Gould said: “It is great to have a genuine legend returning to the club.

“Michael has extensive experience in the game and will bring a new voice and new ideas to our players.

“We really appreciate Michael stepping up to help our club at this time.”

The Bulldogs currently sit rock bottom of the NRL ladder. They have won just two games from 10 so far this season.

Potter will seek to get his first win as Bulldogs interim coach when they travel to Wests Tigers on Friday.

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