‘Definitely a desire to be great’: First interview with new Dragons CEO
“The preseason has been great. If that’s anything to go by, the future is promising. Bring on round one next week for what will hopefully be a full house against the Dogs.
“I look forward to working with the team and driving long-term success.”
Asked what constitutes success, Watsford said: “Success is wins in rugby league, isn’t it? There’s definitely a desire to be great. Participation in particular, footprint growth is also a success metric. Bringing in the next era of Dragons is also important.
“On-field success is paramount, that is the core business. That’s what we all get marked on, including myself. My job is to provide all the resources to support the football program and make sure there are good times ahead.”
The Dragons were one of the big improvers last season, moving five spots up the ladder. However, a late-season slump prevented them from qualifying for the playoffs in Shane Flanagan’s first year as coach.
Watsford believes Flanagan is the right person to turn the Dragons into premiership contenders.
“I’m yet to get in front of Shane, but I’m looking forward to working with him in driving success,” he said.
“He’s a proven coach, we all know that with what he’s done with the Sharks and our development in the era we’re currently in. It’s very exciting, he’s a proven operator and can’t wait to get in there to support him.”
Watsford, who was linked to the Dragons job the last time it was available, said the Red V was on the cusp of a bold new era.
“It’s global, it’s a key word,” he said. “There’s the insinuation [of the Dragons] going to Vegas next year, the NRL juggernaut is taking over the world. Domestically it’s one of the biggest brands in Australian sport.
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“My history in particular is about commercial engagement, fan engagement, membership growth, etc and I wouldn’t be taking the role unless success can come.
“[We] can wake the sleeping giant. It’s an exciting time, it’s a big brand I can’t wait to activate.”
Dragons chairman Andrew Lancaster said Watsford was a natural fit for the role.
“The board is very pleased to welcome Tim as our new CEO,” Lancaster said. “His deep understanding of rugby league, combined with his experience in major event development, commercial growth, and fan engagement, makes him a perfect fit for our club.
“Tim has a proven ability to drive innovation, foster high-performance environments and build meaningful connections between clubs, fans, and the wider community.
“Being CEO of the Dragons comes with clear accountability, and Tim has embraced the expectations we have set for success.”
