Dean Young explains decision to part ways with Michael Ennis
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 9, 2026, 8:27 PM
Last updated Oct 9, 2026

Dean Young, now the permanent head coach of the St George Illawarra Dragons, addressed his decision to move Michael Ennis on during a recent podcast. After taking charge following the dismissal of Shane Flanagan, Young felt the team required a change in environment amid a challenging start to the season. He noted that the players were struggling with confidence and emphasized the need for new voices to facilitate improvement. Young has since focused on basic fundamentals and strengthening connections within the team, resulting in on-field progress as the season continued. Looking ahead, the Dragons have secured new talent for the upcoming season while aiming to elevate their standings in the league.
- •Dragons started the season with a 0-7 record.
- •Dean Young was appointed interim head coach after Flanagan's firing.
- •Young felt a need for change in coaching staff.
- •The Dragons have signed six new players for next season.
- •Team improvement noted towards the end of the season.
- 8:27 PMZero Tackle NRL — Dean Young reveals why he moved Michael Ennis on, opens up on Dragons job
"The Dragons now permanent head coach made a big call early in his interim tenure.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NRL•Oct 9, 2026, 9:09 PMRugby League World Cup best 19s: Lebanon
NRL•Oct 9, 2026, 7:39 PMEvery club’s biggest what if from the 2026 NRL season
NRL•Oct 9, 2026, 9:07 AMPerth Bears confirm CEO decision ahead of first NRL game
NRL•Oct 9, 2026, 9:05 AMTonga vs Lebanon – Round 2, 2026
NRL•Oct 9, 2026, 8:02 AMLegendary Leeds Rhinos winger Hall retires
NRL•Oct 9, 2026, 7:03 AMCameron Munster provides update on future, free agency test likely
