KEY POINTS:
In a reversal of their Kiwis posts, Graeme Norton will coach the Auckland Lions in their debut season in the New South Wales Premier League with Brian McClennan as his assistant.
McClennan will operate as the Lions' director of football and will oversee the Premier League and Bartercard Cup sides, as well as help out with both Richmond and Marist when needed.
It is a move that will take the Kiwis coach away from day-to-day coaching, something he welcomes, but he will keep his hand in as an assistant coach and selector of a side made up of Warriors reserves and the best Bartercard Cup players.
"It allows me to step back and concentrate more on the Kiwis," McClennan said.
"It also broadens my horizons because I can pick and choose the best coaching methods I see."
The Lions were last month permitted entry to play in the NSW Premier League and will make their debut against Parramatta's reserves in the curtain-raiser to the Warriors' NRL season opener against the Eels on March 17.
It is expected the Lions, which will cost about $1 million to fund, will play all of their home matches as curtain-raisers to Warriors games.
"We are really rapt that Graeme will coach the side," McClennan said.
"His record speaks for itself."
The pair will cast their eyes over a number of Lions hopefuls when they hold an open trial at Cornwall Park next Sunday at 3pm.
Players will then be required to be based in Auckland, although they could still play for their Bartercard Cup sides if not needed by the Lions.
The creation of the Lions received the backing of the NZRL and the Warriors, who have offered what will effectively be a feeder club use of their gym and video facilities.
It's hoped the creation of the Lions will help bridge the gap between the NRL and Bartercard Cup and that an NRL under-20 competition to be introduced next year will go some way towards developing the depth of talent in this country.
A number of players have already been in contact with McClennan indicating their desire to be involved, while others have forgone making the move to Australia on their own to try to break into the professional game.
"When the Warriors are going well, it's great for our game," McClennan said.
"And this is something that will really help the Warriors."
