Sport
21 October, 2025
Coach steps down
THE Atherton Roosters will see a change of guard next season after Joel Riethmuller stepped down from his role as head coach of the successful club.
After three years of building the Atherton Roosters into a dominant force within the FNQRL competition, Riethmuller decided it was time to move on so he could focus on his family and business in Cairns.
The former Cowboys player had a great impact on the club, with all three senior grades making it to the preliminary finals this season.
Club president Paul Pensini the club was grateful for the impact Riethmuller had on the club and its playing group.
“I think it was a difficult decision for Joel, it’s just a point in time where he’s given the club a few years and he’s got a young family and a business to run,” he said.
“He’s invested a lot of time and effort into the club. He’s done a terrific job, and he’s played a huge role here – getting the club and the teams to where they finished this year. The club as a whole is certainly thankful for his contribution, not only as a coach but as a person.
“He’s ended up being close friends with us all, so I’m sure he’ll be involved in some way, whether that’s just as a spectator or sticking his head in and seeing how everyone’s going. He cares for the players and I’m sure he wants us to keep continuing on the path that he’s had us on.”
It is understood the club has filled the coaching role and will release details in the coming weeks.
