Manly Sea Eagles Face Legal Battle Related To Coaching Situation

Trent Barrett gave Manly Sea Eagles a 12-month notice period in July.GETTY IMAGES

The "extraordinary situation" of having two head coaches on National Rugby League side Manly Sea Eagles’ books is "poised to come to a head," with supporters of Trent Barrett "adamant his contract stipulates" he is the only man legally entitled to oversee the club, according to Adrian Proszenko of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. The Sea Eagles have "privately maintained they will not pay Barrett out," a stance that will be challenged after the club appointed Des Hasler on a three-year deal. Per his contract, Barrett gave a 12-month notice period in July. The Sea Eagles, "desperate to avoid a payout," expect him to continue to honor his commitments until the period is served. The "contentious issue" is whether the club has the right to shift Barrett into a different role until July to allow Hasler to coach the NRL team. Barrett’s advisers believe only Barrett has that right, "while Manly’s legal advice is to the contrary" (SMH, 10/23).