By Jon Geddes

GEOFF Toovey, one of the toughest players to have ever pulled on a pair of boots in the NRL, is the latest big name former rugby league star to make a smooth and successful transition into the coaching ranks of the Shute Shield.

The former Sea Eagles, NSW Origin and Kangaroos’ star has become a valuable member of the Warringah Rats’ brains trust.

He joins Manly Marlins head coach Phil Blake and Hunter Wildfires assistant John Muggleton - who have both been highly-regarded Wallabies’ defensive coaches – as former elite league players who are now making a big difference at their respective rugby clubs.

Toovey is thriving with his new challenge as an assistant coach at Rat Park, sharing his footy smarts and knowledge in the 15-a-side game with the same passion he did as both NRL player and coach.

“It’s great, it’s just down the road for my home and they are young men who want to listen, who want to learn and be the best they can be,” he told Rugby News after his Rats’ defeated Manly 22-20 in the 100^th local derby at Manly Oval last Saturday.