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Rugby League

Catalans Dragons unveil replacement for Potter

21/05/2008

Former Australia international Kevin Walters has been named as the successor to Mick Potter as Catalans Dragons coach from the end of the season.

Walters, 40, will take over from Potter in October when the current head coach leaves to take up a similar role with Super League rivals St Helens.

"I'm really looking forward to the challenge of coaching the Catalans Dragons for the next three seasons," Walters said.

"It's such a wonderful opportunity for me and I'm excited to be a part of one of the newest rugby league clubs in the world.

"After meeting with the club last week I had a great feeling about their passion and vision for the game, which I found very attractive and complimented my views.

"My family are also very excited by the move to the south of France and becoming part of the local way of life."

Walters won ten international caps in his playing career, which included stints at club sides Brisbane Broncos and Canberra Raiders.

He began his coaching career in 2001 with Brisbane as assistant coach before taking up a similar position in the Queensland state of origin setup. He later became a trainer with the Australian national side.

Dragons chairman Bernard Guasch said he is "very happy" with the capture of Walters, revealing his appointment was in large part down to a four-week search by former Great Britain coach David Waite.

"Kevin appears to be the most suitable candidate to our club. He is very motivated and enthusiastic about his new life in south of France," Guasch commented.

"He wants to bring his Australian winning culture to the Catalans Dragons and this is what we all want."