Thorn returns to where coaching career began

Queensland Reds rookie head coach Brad Thorn is set to take his side back to where his coaching career had its unconventional beginning.

Thorn is looking forward to the challenge of playing in Japan, where he spent two seasons with Japanese Top League side Fukuoka Sanix Blues six years ago.

“It’s a danger game and it’s all on us to turn up with a real good intensity early so we are the team playing the good footy,” Thorn said.

Thorn has been around the game in Japan, getting his unconventional start in the coaching arena with Sanix shortly after the All Blacks 2011 World Cup victory.

“I helped with the scrum because it was horrible when I arrived and I figured if I’m going to enjoy my footy, I’m going to have to help coach it,” Thorn said.

“We went from being obliterated at scrum time to breaking even which was very satisfying.

“It’s a funny story. The Japanese couldn’t get the “Th” in my name right so I was always “Sorny” to them.”

Renowned for his ability to take care of his body over his 22-season professional career, Thorn also assumed the mantle of “unofficial” coach in the weight room with Sanix.

“When six players turned into 12 the coach said ‘no more allowed to train’ because I think the actual strength and conditioning guy was losing face,” Thorn said.

Thorn will take on a familiar face in the opposite coaches box, with Sunwolves head coach Jamie Joseph delivering Thorn’s marching orders during the 43-year-old’s tenure with the Highlanders from 2013 to 2014.

The Reds currently sit third in the Australian conference with four wins and five losses, and have the chance to even their season record against the last-placed Sunwolves.

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