Michael Dobson signs two-year deal with Wynnum Manly

by Seagulls Media

The BMD Wynnum Manly Seagulls are today pleased to announce the signing of Salford Red Devils half-back Michael Dobson for the 2018 and 2019 seasons.

Dobson will headline the playmaking core for the Seagulls over the next two seasons and will bring strong leadership to BMD Kougari Oval.

Dobson had an illustrious ten seasons in Super League where he survived a Million Pound Game, guided Salford to their first Challenge Cup semi-final for twenty years and was twice named in the Dream Team at Hull KR.

Dobson said: “I’ve been thinking about it for the last year and I’ve got a young family and it’s time to take the family home.

“I’ve been here for ten seasons now and we’re just ready to go back, settle down and take a step back from full-time rugby league and move onto the next phase.”

Salford Head Coach Ian Watson was full of praise for his departing half-back: “Dobbo is someone you can greatly rely on to commit 100% to the cause which is shown in the amount of respect he commands from the coaching staff and players. He has helped drive and install a fantastic work ethic within the team and club as captain.

“His attitude is one that doesn’t rely on his talents, which are obvious to see, but his desire and hard-working nature which rubs off on all the players around him. His professionalism and performances over the last couple of years for Salford have been a massive reason as to why we’ve progressed to being a top eight club.”

Seagulls Head Coach Adam Brideson is looking forward to working with the veteran half-back: “Dobbo has come highly recommended as a person and a leader, which is very important for our club. We believe he is somebody that will not only fit into our culture but will enhance it with his work ethic and experience.

We struggled for consistency in the halves this season due to injury and he will be very important for us moving forward. He will be able to mentor our young players and also work in with guys like Pat Templeman, Shaun Nona and Aaron Booth next season.”

Dobson and his family are returning to Australia in October. He is recovering from a thumb injury but is expected to be fit to play by the trials.

Dobson’s Playing History

  • Catalans Dragons (2006)
  • Wigan Warriors (2006)
  • Canberra Raiders (2007 – 2008)
  • Hull KR (2008 – 2013)
  • Newcastle Knights (2014)
  • Salford Red Devils (2015 – 2017)