Brisbane Broncos assistant coach Trent Barrett has spoken openly about his desire to return to the head coaching ranks but insists he’s in no rush, happy to continue learning and contributing in his current role.
The 47-year-old joined the Broncos at the start of the year after two seasons as an assistant at Parramatta, where he has served as Michael Maguire’s right-hand man in guiding Brisbane to their first NRL Premiership since 2006.
Having spent five years as head coach at Manly and Canterbury, and taking a three-year break from the top job, Barrett revealed on SEN 1170 Breakfast that he’s eager for another shot at leading a side.
“I would love to have another go at being a head coach,” Barrett stated.
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“But I'm happy to continue being part of the Broncos as an assistant.
“I've probably had two false starts with Manly and Canterbury and was probably warned against both of them at a young age by people I probably should have listened to.”
While his time as a head coach came with its challenges, Barrett admitted those experiences have made him a stronger and more well-rounded coach.
“The experience I've had being a head coach is certainly beneficial for when you go back to being an assistant, you know exactly what the head coach needs,” he shared.
“But I'm a hell of a lot better coach for the experiences that I've been through.
“The assistant stuff I love, but deep down, you would love another crack at it.”