Brothers Ben and Shane Walker are strong contenders to take over the vacant NZ Warriors head coaching job, according to chief executive Cameron George.
The Warriors are on the hunt for a new coach after sacking Stephen Kearney last month, with Todd Payten serving as the interim coach for the remainder of the 2020 season.
The Walker brothers have no NRL head coaching experience but have had plenty of success in the Queensland Cup, leading the Ipswich Jets to glory in 2015, winning both the Intrust Super Cup and State Championship.
They also guided the Jets to six finals appearances in nine years. The three seasons the Jets missed the semi-finals it was by just one win.
Their success is due to their unique style of play called 'contract football', a philosophy where players are encouraged to pass the ball to a teammate in a better position while maintaining possession for as long as possible.
On top of that, short kickoffs are also encouraged, while on defence it's preferred to let the opposition have quick play-the-balls instead of wrestling them to the ground.
Reports earlier in the week suggested it was down to a two-horse race between Payten and England boss Shaun Wane, but that appears to be far from the truth after George confirmed he's held a formal interview with the brothers.
"The Walker brothers bring a lot to the table as coaches and we are leaving no stone unturned," George told NRL.com.
"They bring several attributes to the game that are refreshing, innovative and certainly could enhance our individual players' talent.
"Everyone loves to see an exciting brand of footy and footballers play to their potential and from what I have seen the Walkers focus on that.
"They are very focused on player development and individuals meeting their greatest potential, which is what we are all trying to do on and off the field in footy. That was a key part of their message to us which is great."
George is among the selection panel who are interviewing candidates alongside club owner Mark Robinson, chairman Rob Groot, and Warriors legend Simon Mannering.
Many coaches have ruled themselves out of contention for the role, including Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy, South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett, Sydney Roosters assistant Craig Fitzgibbon, Storm assistant coach Jason Ryles and Nathan Brown - who worked as a consultant at the Warriors earlier this year.
George says they are in no rush to fill the vacant role.
"We as a club are looking to be successful in the future and leaving no stone unturned," he said.
"We will see what best suits our club moving forward and different methodologies and philosophies so it was a refreshing chat to have.
"We made the decision with Stephen that enabled us a bit of time to go through it.
"We as a club are making sure we explore everything to get the best solution. We don't want to just be winners tomorrow. We want to continue to win for many, many years so we are in no hurry."
The Warriors are currently 13th on the NRL ladder and face the Cronulla Sharks in their next match on Sunday.
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