Former Hull CR and Salford Red Devils star has landed first NRL coaching job

Controversial former Super League star Todd Carney has landed his first NRL coaching job after being appointed Junior Pathways coach by the Gold Coast Titans.

Carney, a Goulburn native, moved to Super League side Catalans Dragons in 2015, scoring nine tries for the Dragons during his two-year spell at Perpignan.

He also went on to play for Salford Red Devils and Hull CR, and during his hiatus Down Under he made a total of 55 British appearances.

Prior to joining the Catalans, he made over 160 first-class appearances for Australia, playing for the Canberra Raiders, Sydney Roosters and Cronulla Sharks.

Carney’s career peaked when he was named NRL Player of the Year for the 2010 campaign, during which he led the Roosters to the grand final, winning the Dally M Medal.

Three years later he was also named the best player Down Under with five eighths, but his playing career was ultimately marred by numerous off-field alcohol-related incidents, including a now-viral photograph of him urinating in his own mouth.

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Controversial former Super League and State of Origin star Todd Carney has landed his first NRL coaching job

The now 38-year-old former playmaker, who represented the Kangaroos and New South Wales during his career, kicked the alcohol habit almost two years ago, entered rehab and began to turn his life around.

Carney told Code Sports: “A lot has changed. The opportunity to work with the Titans is huge. This is another step in the right direction.

“Two years ago I didn’t think I would be working for an NRL organisation. I competed at the NRL Rookie Camp a month ago and will potentially be competing at all 17 clubs.

“It was a huge change and I was pleased to see results. They wouldn’t have happened without changes.

“It’s not about changing opinions, it’s about becoming a better person. That’s what I try to tell people… if you can do this, you’ll be fine.

“I will always have doubters, and that’s normal. I know that I am living on the right path and helping as many people along the way as possible.”

The former Kangaroos international now faces the challenge of helping the Titans develop the next generation. He will work closely with their talent ranging from 14 to 19 years old.

Carney added: “The Titans are getting some really good guys. It’s about teaching them the basics…they have the skills, but they have to be ready to take it to the next level.

“I know I’m on the right track when I go to rookie camp or get the opportunity to play for the Titans.

“Everything is very good, I can’t complain.”

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