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Ben Hornby’s credentials as an NRL head coach have been strongly endorsed as the Dragons begin their search for a long-term appointment.
South Sydney Rabbitohs assistant coach Ben Hornby has emerged as a leading contender for the vacant head coaching role at the St George Illawarra Dragons, with strong backing from players inside his current club.
Rabbitohs captain Cameron Murray and forward Tallis Duncan both endorsed Hornby as a future NRL head coach, pointing to his experience and leadership qualities.
Hornby has spent six years as an assistant at South Sydney under Wayne Bennett and previously served as interim coach in 2024 following the departure of Jason Demetriou.
During that stint, Hornby guided the Rabbitohs to a 6-11 record after a difficult start to the season, including a five-match winning run.
Murray said Hornby handled the role with authority and consistency, adding that his approach reflected lessons learned under Bennett, particularly around fundamentals and discipline.
Duncan highlighted Hornby's communication as a key strength. He noted that while many intelligent former players struggle to translate their understanding into coaching, Hornby has shown an ability to simplify complex ideas and deliver clear messages across the squad.
At the Dragons, Dean Young has taken over on an interim basis following the exit of Shane Flanagan earlier this week.
Both Young and Hornby, teammates in the club's 2010 premiership side, are considered leading internal candidates, although other options are also being explored.
Young has already made selection changes ahead of the Anzac Day clash with the Sydney Roosters.
Kyle Flanagan has been moved to the bench, while 20-year-old Kade Reed is set to debut in the starting side. Ryan Couchman returns from suspension, replacing Jaydn Su'A, while Valentine Holmes retains his spot despite recent form concerns.
Young brings prior experience to the role, having worked as a Dragons assistant between 2015 and 2020, including a stint as interim coach, before roles with the Cowboys and a return to the club in 2024.
He also stepped away from a position under Laurie Daley this year to focus fully on the Dragons.
