THE Coffs Harbour Comets have announced Robert ‘Rip’ Taylor as their new first grade coach for the 2022 season.

Taylor has a wealth of coaching experience in Group 2 where he started his career before moving to Group 1 at Newcastle, Central Coast, NRL Jersey Flegg and the NSW Cup.

Taylor played for Bellingen in Group 2 as a 20-year-old Captain/Coach where he won back to back premierships and a Clayton’s Cup before moving to Group 1.

Taylor has a proven track record of developing players, which is epitomised by an impressive resume that includes being named NSW Cup Coach of the Year 2012, 2015, 2017 and 2019; NSW Residents Coach 2001, 2012 and 2013; NSW Country Coach 2001 and 2002; Newcastle Jersey Flegg coach 2003-2006; and 2007- 2019 NSW Cup Coach at Newcastle, Parramatta/Wentworthville and Wyong ( East’s feeder club).

Taylor has coached in 26 Grand Finals, taking home 13 Premierships!

Comets front rower Miles Fairbank is excited with the new appointment at the club.

”I’m really excited to play under ‘Rip’ from what I have heard he is a quality coach, his record speaks for itself.

“It will be good to get back into pre-season and learn a few things from Rip,” said Miles.

Comets commence preseason training on 16 December but some of the players literally can’t wait for the training to begin.

“A group of us have been getting together 2-3 times a week doing circuit training where we bring kettlebells, barbells and put it together with cardio and bodyweight exercises.

“And we always finish with death by Malcolm’s,” chortled Miles.

 

By David WIGLEY