The Norths Board endorsed Cron to succeed Fava after the club approached a small number of quality coaches from range of experiences and backgrounds.

“Next year is a whole new chapter for Norths, in many ways. We look forward to Simon leading the charge with our rugby program and seeing the development of an exciting bunch of young players,” said Club President Tony Crawford.

“Simon already has momentum with the Club through his relationship with a number of players, who were involved in the successful 7s campaign that he led in 2013,” Director of Rugby Grahame O’Donnell said.

“His appointment also fits the Club’s aim of promoting aspirational young coaches. We are excited about the enthusiasm he will bring to the Club and we look forward to a number of our young players moving to the next level as we have seen under Scott Fava in previous years.”

Head coach, Simon Cron, said he felt delighted at being appointed Head Coach of Norths and was excited by the opportunities that lay ahead.

“Norths is a club with a strong history in Australian Rugby and it is a pleasure to be on board as the Head Coach.”

“In my time coaching at North’s from 2012 until the end of 2013 I developed a strong relationship with both the players and management. The majority of these people are still heavily involved so I am looking forward to working with them again.”

“My first focus will be on the existing player group and answering any questions they have. I will also be focussed on developing a strong offseason program that gives the players the best opportunity to improve their skill level and evolve their rugby knowledge.”