In a major shock Southern Districts and their head coach Todd Louden have agreed to an “amicable separation” effective immediately.

Rumours of some “movement” at Forshaw Rugby Park have been circulating for several weeks, a fact not helped by the fact that they are two from nine at the midway point of the Shute Shield season.

In a statement to Rugby News on Friday morning Souths board, under president Brad Devine, said: “Like all clubs the pandemic has created some significant challenges for Southern Districts over the last three seasons on and off the field. 

“Nevertheless the club, with Todd (Louden), has continued to work through this period on building a stronger playing pathway for juniors and seniors. 

“At the beginning of the season Todd advised the Board that this would be his last season as Head Coach, and to ensure that the ground work laid continues in 2023 Todd and the Board have amicably agreed to make that transition now. 

“We would like to thank Todd for his significant contribution to the club, and wish him well as he moves on to his next venture.”

The healing though has already begun with the most successful Souths coach of recent times Matt Barr stepping into the breach for the rest of the 2022 season.

Barr, a house master at Waverley College, led the club during what was golden period  that saw them play in grands finals in 2012 and 2014 and playoff appearances in 2015 and 2016.

“Matt brings with him a wealth of Rugby experience – he is in fact the most successful coach in the club’s history, taking our first grade side to multiple semi finals, and to two grand finals in the past decade,” the statement added. 

“He has enjoyed a break from rugby over the past three years, and is refreshed and excited to be involved again. 

“We welcome ‘Barrie’ back home to Forshaw Rugby Park.”

Barr took the Shute Shield squad for training on Thursday night and will call the shots when the Rebels head to Newcastle to take on the Hunter Wildfires.