By Tallon Smith

The Wagga Brothers have pulled off a major coup ahead of their return to Group 9 First Grade after securing the services of former Dragon and Bronco Aaron Gorrell as coach for the 2024 season.

After player shortages and other difficulties forced the red and greens to pull out of the competition’s premier grade this year, the club has its sights set on making a mark when they return to the paddock next season.

In speaking with Battlers For Bush Footy, Gorrell expressed his excitement ahead of taking on the role with the proud club.

“I think it’s massive, obviously Wagga is a massive rugby league town,” he said.

“The standard in Group 9 is pretty strong.

“I think you have to go a long way to find a genuine stronger country competition.”

Gorrell is no stranger to Group 9 talent, having coached the Riverina side at the Country Championships last year, while also at the helm of the Queanbeyan Kangaroos side in the Canberra Region Rugby League competition.

“I did the Riverina side last year,” he said.

“Brothers had contact with me a few years ago but I’d already agreed to terms with Queanbeyan.

“It’ll be a good test to start a club from scratch in First Grade.”

In terms of moving from a more metropolitan regional competition in Canberra, Gorrell seemed to be happy with the idea he would be contributing to maintaining the health of country footy.

“The passion out here [is huge],” he said.

“It’s pretty sad they had to do what they did last year.

“It’s sad when you see clubs like that folding, and it’s happening all over the place.”

The Brothers’ first match under Gorrell’s tenure is expected to be at the West Wyalong Knockout in March next year, followed by the opening round of the Group 9 competition in April.

Feature Image: Wagga Brothers President Zac Wilson with new coach Aaron Gorrell (Credit: Wagga Brothers Instagram)