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Why former Souths coach believes in Lockyer's London Broncos vision
Charles Goodsir • September 24th, 2025 1:16 pm
Former South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou has revealed to SEN why he accepted to join the London Broncos as head coach from 2026.
Former Brisbane Broncos legend Darren Lockyer has recently purchased a 90% stake in the London side in a bid to elevate the struggling outfit into a dominant UK rugby league venture.
The Broncos finished 10th in the second division this season but with the Super League set to expand 14 teams next year, Lockyer and Demetriou are optimistic about their chances of returning to the top flight.
The London Broncos are one of nine teams who have submitted applications for two available spots in the Super League.
“It was something that came out of the blue to be honest,” Demetriou told SEN 1170.
“Lockyer explained to me the vision of the club and what they want to do in order to make the London Broncos a successful organisation and footy team.
“I was really impressed and excited with what they are trying to achieve.
“I’m very keen to jump on board and be a part of it.
“October 16 is when teams find out who’s in (to the Super League).
“All of our fingers are crossed. We put a great proposal and bid in and I believe it will exceed other bids in terms of what the guys are willing to do to commit.
“That’s not just for the Super League but also for being a successful team in London.”
SEN’s Matty Johns would like to see the London franchise become a development side for young talent in the NRL who aren’t yet ready for first grade but are a higher standard than NSW and Queensland Cup.
“The original London Broncos, the way they were set up, was to be a feeder team to the Brisbane Broncos,” Johns said on SEN 1170.
“All the Broncos’ best young players weren't playing in the local leagues or under-21’s.
“The Broncos wanted them to play against men so they sent them over to play for the London Broncos.
“They were an off-shoot of the Brisbane Broncos and that’s what I think they should do.”
