The National Rugby League (NRL) has advised Shane Flanagan he will be eligible for registration in the NRL as an assistant coach for the 2020 and 2021 seasons.
Mr Flanagan’s eligibility for registration will commence from 18 December, 2019.
Mr Flanagan’s registration is contingent on he and any future employer complying with a range of conditions set by the NRL.
NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg today met with Mr Flanagan and advised him of the decision.
Mr Greenberg said the NRL had created a path for Mr Flanagan to return to coaching.
“I have spoken to Shane at length and he has expressed significant remorse andaccepted responsibility for his past actions and the detrimental impact they have had on the game,’’ he said.
“We have created a pathway for Shane to return to the coaching ranks. Today’s decision gives Shane an opportunity to be registered in the NRL.
“This is not a set and forget approach. Shane and any future club who employs him has numerous conditions which they must comply with and the Integrity Unit will continue to monitor his conduct over the next two seasons.”
Mr Flanagan said he was pleased to have the opportunity to seek registration and would consider his options over the coming months.
“Today I met with the NRL and I both respect and accept the course of action they have taken,’’ he said.
“I look forward to returning to the coaching ranks, firstly as an assistant coach and hopefully one day a head coach again.”
Mr Flanagan has been told the NRL will give no consideration to expediting his return to a head coaching role beyond today’s decision.
