Benji Marshall will assume the role of Wests Tigers head coach in 2024 after the club confirmed that Tim Sheens will step down from the role at the end of the 2023 NRL season.
The club confirmed in a statement that they had mutually agreed to part ways with four-time premiership winning coach Tim Sheens at the end of this season.
Marshall was originally expected to take over from the 2005 Premiership-winning mentor as coach in 2025 but will assume the role ahead of schedule due to disappointing on field-results in 2023, with the club winning just three games to date and almost certain to finish at the bottom of the Telstra Premiership ladder for the second time in as many years.
"I came back with a focus on creating stronger pathways and development programs," Sheens said.
“I am proud of the work accomplished by all involved in the pathways system and of the emerging local talent, in both the men's and women’s competitions.”
Marshall, who played 257 first-grade games for the club, said he has benefitted greatly from working alongside Sheens this season.
“To be the head coach of Wests Tigers has been a long-held dream of mine since retiring from playing," said Marshall.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to take on the role and I am indebted to Tim for all that he has taught me, both as a player and as an assistant coach."
It is not yet known whether current assistant coaches David Furner and Robbie Farah will remain in football roles within the joint-venture club in 2024.
More to come.
