Sharks confirm NRLW coaching staff for 2023

The Cronulla Sharks have confirmed the appointment of Tony Herman as NRLW head coach and Ruan Sims as assistant coach for their inaugural season in 2023.

Herman has a strong link to the club and women’s competition after serving as the head coach of the Sharks' Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership team for the past two seasons.

With his side narrowly beaten in the 2022 Grand Final by the Wests Tigers, Herman has played his part in driving equality and providing greater opportunities for female rugby league players in the Sutherland Shire.

“I am extremely humbled to be the inaugural Cronulla Sharks NRLW coach. It is an honour to coach at this great club and in the women’s space that I am so passionate about is very special,” Herman said.

“The excitement around the club that we now have an NRLW team is extraordinary.

"This year we ran 14s and 17s development teams and attracted around 30-40 girls in each with the plan to run 14s, 15s, 16s and 17s this coming season.”

Meanwhile, Sims, a pioneer of the women’s game, will wear two hats in 2023, as assistant coach of the Sharks NRLW team and head coach of the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership side.

As the first female player to ever sign a rugby league player contract, Sims' impressive career has seen her play 12 Tests for the Australian Jillaroos, as well as represent New South Wales, the NRL All Stars and New South Wales Country.

"The opportunity to bring Ruan back to the club is something we are all really excited about," Sharks CEO Dino Mezzatesta said.

"Ruan’s appointment as both the Harvey Norman women’s head coach and our NRLW assistant coach not only bolsters and strengthens our commitment to female players, but also adds a wealth of experience and knowledge in developing our coaching staff as well."