Cullen will take the helm as playing coach from Ron Griffith who announced last week that he had not sought reappointment.

A local junior, Cullen will be playing in his 10th season in first grade for the Bulldogs, his stellar playing career including selection in the NSW Pioneers (2018/19), Newcastle Rebels (2014,18,19) and Newcastle All Stars (2018,19).

"We are sure he will be as successful at coaching as he is playing-coach," the Bulldogs committee said.

Griffiths informed the club of his intentions not to reapply for the job when they began the process of formally opening applications.

"I let the club know, I decided the time was right for I suppose a freshen up for both," he said.

"I enjoyed my time there. I love what they're about just their ethic, a hard working town and a community that get really behind their club

"It's time for a new challenge."

The Bulldogs first grade team narrowly missed the finals, but the Blues Tag and Reserve Grade teams are in action today in elimination finals against Lakes United and Macquarie respectively and Open Grade takes on South Newcastle in the qualifying final on Sunday.