YOUR 2027 COACHES

My journey in the game began at just 12 years old as a player. However, in my early 20s, I discovered that my true passion was helping others develop, building teams and creating an environment where people could achieve more than they thought possible.

For more than 20 years, Rochedale Tigers was my home away from home. Throughout that time, I worked across multiple roles, including coaching, team management and vice presidency, eventually becoming a life member of the club. Those years shaped me not only as a coach, but as a leader who understands the importance of club culture, loyalty, relationships and giving back to the game.

After building my own senior football program at Rochedale, I knew it was time to challenge myself and pursue opportunities at a higher level. My journey into the Brisbane Rugby League over the past four years has allowed me to learn from some outstanding coaches and football minds through the Brisbane Tigers (Bulimba Bulldogs), West Brisbane Panthers (Norths Devils) and Valley Diehards.

That’s what attracted me to Runaway Bay Seagulls. The club represents the values I believe in: community, connection, hard work and pride in the jersey. It feels like a place I can call home, and I’m excited about what we can build together.

Away from the club, I’m also the owner of the North Coast system, which competes in the Nines Premier League through the North Coast Marlins and North Coast Kings. That experience has further strengthened my passion for developing players, building strong programs and creating opportunities for people to showcase their ability.

As we look towards the 2027 season, I’m under no illusion that success comes overnight. I can’t promise wins, but I can promise commitment, honesty, hard work and a clear standard for the people who represent this club.

My goal is to build a team that our members, supporters and old boys can be proud of — a team that represents Runaway Bay with passion, respect and a genuine willingness to work for one another.

In 2027, results will matter, but so will the way we earn them.

I’m excited for the challenge ahead, proud to be part of the Runaway Bay Seagulls and ready to get to work.

A proven competitor, premiership winner, and highly experienced fundamentals coach, Dan Bruce brings a wealth of rugby league knowledge to our senior program. He blends a proven championship record with a modern approach to player connection, technical progression, and structural discipline.

Dan began his rugby league journey at Harbord United Juniors in Sydney, building unbreakable on-field bonds that endure to this day. He progressed to an elite senior playing career with Valley United Spartans, highlighted by playing seven years of A-grade and winning 4 senior premierships. This high-level competitive background forms the foundation of his love of the sport, high standards of performance and strong, authentic player relationships.

Upon moving to the Gold Coast to raise his family, Dan transitioned into coaching. He has been a cornerstone of the Runaway Bay club since 2011, dedicating a decade to mastering junior development. During this time, he built a powerful grassroots foundation—mentoring hundreds of young athletes in core skill sets, team discipline, and a lifelong passion for the game.

Five years ago, Dan successfully transitioned to the senior ranks. He has applied his comprehensive club knowledge and senior playing experience to help guide our senior program.

Committed to driving an elite competitive environment rooted in strong team cohesion, clear structural play, and continual improvement, Dan places a premium on developing genuine, high-trust connections with players and staff to foster a unified, resilient one club culture.

I am honoured and grateful to have been selected as the under 19’s Coach this year. It is an exciting opportunity, and one I don’t take lightly. Rugby league has always been a passion of mine, I feel privileged to be able to give back to the game, share my knowledge and experience , and play a part in developing the next generation of players.

I look forward to getting to know the players, building strong relationships and creating a team environment based on hard work, respect, accountability and a genuine commitment to developing not only better footballers, but better people.

My experience in rugby league includes:

Southport Tigers Under 14- 16s – Coaching in junior representative development.
Southport Tigers Under 18s – Coaching and mentoring young players as they progress through their football journey.
Burleigh Bears – Mal Meninga Team – Sports Trainer, gaining valuable experience supporting players and working within a high-performance football environment.

Through these experiences, I l have developed a strong understanding of the game, the importance of team culture and what it takes to help young players reach their potential.

My passion for rugby league goes well beyond the field. I believe football is about building character, creating opportunities, developing confidence and bringing people together through a shared love of the game.

My vision for the Runaway Bay Under 19s is to build a team that plays with pride, passion, discipline and respect. A team that works hard for one another, embraces challenges and represents the club with integrity both on and off the field.

I am committed to creating an environment where every player feels valued, supported and challenged to improve. I understands that every player has different strengths, goals and abilities, and believes in taking the time to get to know each individual and help them become the best version of themselves. The heart of my coaching philosophy is my dedication to my players.

I believe success isn’t measured by wins and losses alone. It’s also measured by the friendships built, the lessons learned and each players personal growth. My goal is simple: to build a team that is proud to represent Runaway Bay, plays for each other and leaves nothing in the tank.

It’s not just about building footballers. It’s about building people, building character and creating a team that will stand together, fight for each other and wear the Runaway Bay jersey with pride.

With an amazing coaching staff behind me, I look forward to what this opportunity will bring .