Griffin Happy to be a Dolphin

ANTHONY Griffin has welcomed the responsibility commensurate with his new role as head coach of Redcliffe, enjoying a 36-16 first-up win against Burleigh.

After ending his tenure at Souths Logan midway through last year due to health problems, Griffin has returned to Dolphin Oval full of vigour.

He is no stranger to the Peninsula, having spent three years in a coaching and development role there previously.

However his latest challenge puts him in esteemed company ? joining a list of recent Redcliffe coaches that has included Neil Wharton, Alex Corvo and John Boxsell.

The weekend?s comfortable win over a diluted Burleigh side helped Griffin settle back in, but he is more than aware that a job remains to be done.

?Redcliffe has always been a good club and I?m excited to be involved here,? said Griffin.

?There?s a lot of interest in Redcliffe, particularly this year when they?ve brought some people in and they?re looking for a change in a number of areas.?

Last year the Dolphins finished sixth, the first time the club had finished out of the finals since the inception of the Queensland Cup.

In Redcliffe?s first outing for 2005, winger Matt Gruszka was a clear standout, while Adam Starr was as strong as ever up front.

Roma prop Nathan Herbener was the sole casualty with a hamstring injury, while veterans Troy Lindsay and Grant Flugge featured in reserve grade.

?They have suspensions hanging over from last year and will miss the first fixture match,? Griffin explained.

?It?s not a relegation at all. I just want to look at some people who can fill their positions for the first match.

?Troy and Grant are both stalwarts of the club and remain among the better trainers.?

This coming Saturday Griffin will have the chance to face off against his old club when Souths Logan travels up the Hornibrook Highway.