Hasler confirms 2012 season to be his last at Manly

Dual Premiership winning coach Des Hasler has today announced that the 2012 NRL season will be his last with the Manly Sea Eagles Club.

Des Hasler has signed to be the head coach of the Canterbury Bulldogs Club for 4 seasons from 2013 to 2016.

With the Club having appeared in 3 Grand Final's in the last 5 years and winning 2, Des felt that the time was right. Having achieved this tremendous football success against a backdrop of many challenges, Des will pursue new challenges and ambitions at the Bulldogs.

Des praises at the highest level his relationship with his players and coaching/performance staff. This has enabled the club to enjoy its successes having climbed it's way from near oblivion to the top of the NRL. Given the limited resources of the Manly Club in comparison to some NRL peers, this success had surpassed many expectations.

Des Hasler said, "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time coaching the wonderful group of young men over the last 8 years at the club. Our success is a testament to the hard work ethic and respect exhibited amongst the playing group and football staff. Despite my ongoing discussions with the Board for over 12 months regarding a new contract with the Manly club, we simply could not align our future thoughts. Whilst it would have been financially advantageous for me to stay at the Manly Club, I have elected to take up the challenge of building in a new direction with the Bulldogs from 2013. It will be business as usual for me at Manly during 2012.