RHYS Jacks appeared for the Ipswich in 18 games this season at Host Plus Cup level, captaining the squad and he now has taken up a post coaching a Canadian side.
His connection to Canada runs deep, with 22 games for the Toronto Wolfpack and four games for the Canadian national team, and he has Canadian descent.
Jacks has been named as the head coach of Canada’s newly formed under-19s side, a role he is excited to dig into.
“It is massive for myself and my family,” he said.
“With my grandad’s heritage and my love of the sport, I’m extremely lucky to represent both.
“From my experience in past Canadian teams, they are the most hard-working guys I have met.
“They are like sponges and just want to be better.
“I feel like with continued time and support, rugby league can continue to grow over there.”
He linked up with the Toronto Wolfpack in 2017, scoring six tries in 21 appearances, helping the Wolfpack to the third-tier title and with it, promotion up to the Championship.
In the Host Plus Cup, he lined up for the Sunshine Coast Falcons, Easts Tigers, and Ipswich Jets.
With the Jets he cracked the milestone of 150 games before retiring from the Jets and league in September as he approaches his 35th birthday coming up in January.
Jacks’ last official appearance for Canada came in November 2018 against Chile, scoring his sole international try in a 62-12 victory.
Six years on from that game, he’s now been handed the task of bringing through the next generation of the nation’s rugby league talent.
Jacks said he would remain based in Queensland and travel over twice a year for camps and games.
“I have two coaches over there and keep watching the domestic games online,” he said.
