Sydney, June 18, 2024 — In an exciting and highly anticipated move, the Bankstown Bulldogs have announced the return of former star player Hazem El Masri to the club in a new role within the coaching staff. The news has been met with widespread enthusiasm from fans and players alike, as the beloved rugby league icon rejoins the team he helped lead to numerous victories.
El Masri, who retired in 2009 as the NRL’s all-time leading point scorer, will take on the role of kicking coach and player development advisor. Known for his exceptional skill and dedication on the field, El Masri’s return is expected to bring invaluable expertise and inspiration to the current squad.
In a statement released today, El Masri expressed his excitement about rejoining the Bulldogs. “I am thrilled to be back with the Bulldogs, a club that has always been close to my heart. I look forward to working with the players and coaching staff to help develop their skills and contribute to the team’s success.”
The decision to bring El Masri back to the Bulldogs comes as part of the club’s broader strategy to strengthen its coaching team and leverage the experience of past legends to foster a winning culture. The move has been praised by many within the rugby league community, who see it as a positive step towards rebuilding the club’s competitive edge.
Bankstown Bulldogs CEO Aaron Warburton highlighted the significance of El Masri’s return, stating, “Hazem El Masri is a true legend of our club and the sport. His expertise, work ethic, and passion for the Bulldogs will be invaluable as we continue to develop our players and strive for excellence. We are delighted to welcome him back to the Bulldogs family.”
Players within the Bulldogs squad have expressed their enthusiasm about working with El Masri. Team captain Josh Jackson commented, “Having Hazem back with us is incredible. His knowledge of the game and his experience are second to none. We’re all looking forward to learning from him and improving our game.”
Fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with social media buzzing with excitement about El Masri’s return. Hashtags like #ElMasriIsBack and #BulldogsLegend have been trending, reflecting the widespread joy and anticipation among supporters.
Rugby league analysts and commentators have also praised the move, noting that El Masri’s return is a smart strategic decision that brings both technical expertise and a strong connection to the club’s storied past. His involvement is expected to boost player morale and enhance the Bulldogs’ overall performance.
As the Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season, El Masri’s return adds an extra layer of optimism and enthusiasm to the team. His presence on the coaching staff is seen as a key factor in helping the Bulldogs reclaim their status as one of the top teams in the NRL.
The Bankstown Bulldogs’ decision to bring back Hazem El Masri is a testament to the enduring legacy of past legends and the ongoing commitment to building a successful future. Fans and players alike are eagerly looking forward to the positive impact El Masri will have on the club as they embark on this exciting new chapter.
