Australian bingo ladies love their rugby!
Des Hasler, the former coach of the Manly Leagues Rugby Club, resigned his position in 2011 to coach for Canterbury in 2012. Many fans have been divided about this decision and the debate still continues at a local bingo hall. The former Manly coach made his return to Brookvale Oval with his new team and left with a victory against his old one. Before the game, he stated that the ‘little old ladies’ love him and did not expect much criticism. Contrary to his belief, there are still Manly fans and ‘little old ladies’ who still feel betrayed by his move.
Criticism at the Bingo Hall
Women at a local bingo hall were buzzing about the return of Hasler, some with criticism and some with warm wishes. When the issue of Hasler’s return was mentioned, it incited an intense debate between the women. Anastasia Harris is one of Hasler’s toughest critics, saying that he sold his soul when he left Manly after winning the 2011 premiership. She goes on to say that he was on an unbeatable streak and all the fans were pleased. Harris also stated that Hasler made a name for himself as a coach with manly and then promptly deserted his roots and his fans.
The Other Side of the Bingo Hall Debate
Not all of the women at the bingo hall have the same opinion of Hasler as Anastasia Harris. Rhonda Turnbull told reporters that it is not possible to have the same coach forever and when another coach steps up, Manly will defeat Canterbury. Turnbull also says that she forgives Hasler as he was dedicated to Manly for years. Beryl Benson has a much more matter-of-fact opinion about Hasler, saying that he is simply gone, period. She says that Manly thought they needed him more than they really do and Manly will do fine without Hasler. Benson says that she does not love Hasler anymore but she does love the Manly Leagues Rubgy Club.
Overall, most of the women at the bingo hall were saddened by the loss Hasler; they wanted the best for him. Jan Burke said that she has no ill will towards him and believes he is a good coach. Burke’s golfing partner, June McDonald agreed with Burke saying that the return to Brookvale Oval will be hard for Hasler because there will be many upset fans in attendance. She goes on to say that there are still ‘little old ladies’ at Manly that will show him support.
The Coaching Career of Des Hasler
Des Hasler became the head coach of Manly in 2004. Manly made it to the grand final in 2007 but lost to Melbourne Storm. In 2008, Manly defeated Melbourne Storm in the grand final with an astonishing score of 40 to 0. Hasler lead Manly to the finals in 2009 and 2010 but the team lost a final game each year. In 2011, Manly won the grand final and Hasler was given the coach of the year award. In 2011, Hasler decided to sign a coaching contract with Canterbury and is currently the head coach at that club.
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