The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys have signed John Cartwright to a one-year contract to join their coaching staff as an NRL assistant coach.

The foundation head coach at the Gold Coast Titans checked out Cowboys HQ this afternoon and will officially start work with his new club tomorrow.

An outstanding ball-playing back-rower, Cartwright played 188 first grade matches for Penrith, playing in two grand finals, as well as 18 Test matches for Australia and eight State of Origin games for New South Wales before venturing into coaching.

He had three seasons as assistant coach of the Sydney Roosters before linking with the Titans as head coach when they entered the NRL in 2007.

He was in charge of the Coast for almost 200 games until last year and also took on roles as assistant coach of the Kangaroos (2008) and New South Wales Blues (2004, 2011), and as coach of the City Origin squad (2009-10).

“There’s no doubt John brings an outstanding coaching resume to the Cowboys,” general manager – football Peter Parr said.

“His arrival is a huge boost for our club and gives us an outstanding coaching staff to take into the coming season.”